October 11, 2016 - 11:10 AM
BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo - Republic of Congo's prime minister says he rejects calls for a cease-fire and negotiations by a former militia leader whose fighters have staged deadly attacks in recent weeks.
Prime Minister Clement Mouamba spoke Tuesday during a memorial for 21 people killed in attacks in the southern Pool region, including 11 soldiers.
The government put out an arrest warrant for Frederic Bitsangou, who went into hiding in April, blaming him for an attack in Pool that killed 17.
Bitsangou, a pastor, led the Ninjas Nsiloulou group until it disbanded in 2003.
A spokesman for Bitsangou has said he wants a "political solution" to the hostilities. He said the recent attacks have protested the March re-election of President Denis Sassou N'Guesso.
The prime minister called on Bitsangou to face justice.
News from © The Associated Press, 2016