Mindouli incident in Pool draws political attention
An armed altercation recently broke out 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 subject of national political discussion, particularly as parties and institutions stress the importance of calm and public order in the run-up to the presidential election scheduled for March.
PCT Brazzaville meeting highlights government “promptness”
The Pool episode was raised during a meeting convened on Jan. 13 by the Brazzaville federation of the Congolese Labour Party (PCT). The gathering was organized to welcome Faustin Elenga and Théophane Adoua, elected to the party’s permanent secretariat after the 6th ordinary congress.
At that meeting, PCT officials praised what they described as the government’s swift reaction to the Mindouli events, presenting it as part of a broader commitment to preserve peace across the Republic of Congo.
Faustin Elenga warns against renewed violence ahead of March poll
Speaking on the matter, Faustin Elenga, elected permanent secretary in charge of organization and mobilization, said he was concerned by what he viewed as a resurgence of violence in Pool.
He argued that such episodes could threaten the climate of peace, especially at a moment he described as sensitive, 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, saying the authorities remain determined to protect and sustain peace throughout the national territory in the interest of all citizens.
In remarks delivered at the meeting, he expressed backing for the Republic’s institutions and for President Denis Sassou N’Guesso, framing the security response as an operation aimed at restoring order and reducing the space for groups described as acting outside the law.
Security operations framed as enforcement of laws and regulations
Elenga also said the Mindouli incident occurred during the application of the Republic’s laws and regulations. In his view, Pool, like every other department, must see the law enforced with the same rigor and consistency.
He pointed to earlier actions in Brazzaville and other localities, where, he said, security services burned hundreds of motorcycles deemed not in compliance and linked to individuals he described as outlaws.
He questioned why the same legal and regulatory standards should not be applied in Pool, insisting the department should not be treated as “a state within a state.” He stressed the unity and indivisibility of the Republic of Congo in the party’s messaging.
Calls for peaceful politics and election mobilization
Elenga said the PCT would not accept a return to bloodshed and urged that political competition be channeled 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 turnout and organization as key priorities for the party’s base.
Post-congress leadership thanks head of state for support
Turning to internal party matters, Elenga expressed gratitude to the head of state in connection with 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 lead a permanent commission, framing these selections as part of the party’s post-congress consolidation and preparation for the months ahead.