Rival factions clash before presidential elections in Congo

Fighters loyal to rival candidates in the Democratic Republic of Congo's presidential elections clashed in the capital, with bursts of gunfire and exploding mortars.

The fighting in Kinshasa increased tension as the population awaited results of the first free elections in nearly 50 years.

Police said two civilians were killed when they were caught in crossfire between loyalists of President Joseph Kabila and Vice President Jean-Pierre Bemba.

The shooting lasted less than four hours yesterday and was confined to a couple of roads in front of the residence and a television station of Bemba, a former rebel leader.

But it raised fears about what could happen when final results are announced, expected by November 19.