The African Union has lauded the ceasefire agreement signed between the Republic of Congo government and a rebel group in the southeast region of Pool.
The agreement was signed on Saturday, halting a 15-year conflict that rights groups say has killed tens of people and forced tens of thousands to flee.
Chairperson of the AU Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat welcomed the signing of that agreement, urging the parties involved to commit to its implementation to ensure lasting peace in the country.
He congratulated both sides for the move, saying it was an important step towards pacifying Congo.
Political violence spiked in the Central African oil producer following a hotly contested presidential election in April 2016 which was won by President Nguesso, who has ruled for 33 of the last 38 years.
A militia led by Frederic Bintsamou, better known as Pastor Ntumi, which fought Sassou Nguesso during and after a 1997 civil war, has been blamed by the government for deadly raids on police, military and government bases, and has also halted trade through the Pool region with blockades.
In return, the government has bombed the Pool region, including one helicopter raid last year on a residential area that Amnesty International said killed at least 30 people.
