Mindouli Incident in Pool Department Draws Political Attention
A recent armed clash erupted in Mindouli, in the Pool department, involving soldiers from the General Directorate of Presidential Security (DGSP) and the “ninjas-ntsilulus” associated with Frédéric Bintsamou, known as Pastor Ntumi.
The incident quickly became a topic of national political discussion, especially as parties and institutions emphasize the importance of calm and public order ahead of the presidential election scheduled for March.
PCT Meeting in Brazzaville Highlights Government’s “Responsiveness”
The Pool episode was raised during a meeting convened on January 13 by the Brazzaville federation of the Congolese Party of Labour (PCT). The gathering was organized to welcome Faustin Elenga and Théophane Adoua, elected to the party’s permanent secretariat after the 6th ordinary congress.
During the meeting, PCT officials praised what they described as the government’s swift response to the events in Mindouli, presenting it as part of a broader commitment to preserving peace across the Republic of Congo.
Faustin Elenga Warns Against Resurgence of Violence Before March Poll
Speaking on the issue, Faustin Elenga, elected permanent secretary in charge of organization and mobilization, expressed concern over what he sees as a resurgence of violence in the Pool.
He argued that such episodes could threaten the climate of peace, especially at what he described as a sensitive time, with the country about two months away from the March presidential election.
PCT Reiterates Support for Government and President Sassou N’Guesso
Elenga reaffirmed the PCT’s support for the government, stating that the authorities remain determined to protect and maintain peace across the entire national territory for the benefit of all citizens.
In remarks at the meeting, he expressed support for the Republic’s institutions and for President Denis Sassou N’Guesso, framing the security response as an operation to restore order and reduce the space for groups described as acting outside the law.
Security Operations Framed as Enforcement of Laws and Regulations
Elenga also stated that the Mindouli incident occurred during the enforcement of the Republic’s laws and regulations. According to him, the Pool, like any other department, must see the law applied with the same rigor and consistency.
He cited previous actions in Brazzaville and other localities where, he claimed, security services burned hundreds of motorcycles deemed non-compliant and linked to individuals he described as outlaws.
He questioned why the same legal and regulatory standards should not be applied in the Pool, insisting that the department should not be treated as “a state within a state.” He emphasized the unity and indivisibility of the Republic of Congo in the party’s message.
Calls for Peaceful Politics and Electoral Mobilization
Elenga stated that the PCT would not accept a return to bloodshed and urged that political competition be expressed through calm electoral participation. He argued that elections should be decided at the ballot box, in a climate of peace and tranquility.
Beyond the security discussion, he used the meeting to encourage PCT members in Brazzaville to intensify mobilization for the March presidential election, presenting participation and organization as key priorities for the party’s base.
Post-Congress Leadership Thanks Head of State for Support
Addressing internal party matters, Elenga expressed gratitude to the Head of State regarding his own election and that of Théophane Adoua, elected permanent secretary in charge of training and documentation.
He also thanked the president for the election of Anatole Collinet Makosso to head a permanent commission, presenting these choices as part of the party’s post-congress consolidation and preparation for the coming months.