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BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of Congo (AP) — A lawyer says the Republic of Congo has denied bail for an opposition leader under house arrest since June.
Jean Marie Michel Mokoko was detained on charges of undermining state security and illegally possessing weapons. Lawyer Eric Ibouanga says the state added a third charge Thursday of inciting public disorder. But he says there is no evidence against Mokoko.
Mokoko, an independent candidate, came in third in presidential elections in March.
Another opposition leader, Paulin Makaya, was sentenced in July to two years in prison for inciting public disorder and insurrection after participating in an October protest against a referendum allowing the president to seek another term.
President Denis Sassou N'Guesso, in power for more than 30 years, was re-elected.
Opposition parties have called for the opposition leaders' release.
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