**Fragile Calm in Pont Kwango: A Village Between Hope and Fear**
On this Wednesday, December 25, an atmosphere of fragile calm reigns over the village of Pont Kwango, located in the territory of Kenge, two days after an attack perpetrated by Mobondo militiamen in the region. The mayor of the rural commune of Pont Kwango, Jean Baptiste Nkololo, informed that the population is going about its usual business despite some apprehension.
It is essential to note that the population is currently advised not to go to the forest due to the ongoing military operations. This measure aims to ensure the safety of the inhabitants of Pont Kwango while the local authorities closely monitor the evolution of the situation.
Jean-Baptiste Nkololo revealed that traffic was disrupted last Monday near the village of Pont Kwango on the RN 1, following clashes between military forces and Mobondo militiamen. The disruptions were briefly caused by acts of vandalism, including the looting of a bus coming from Kinshasa and heading for Kikwit, as well as the burning of another vehicle.
Fortunately, no deaths were reported in these incidents. The mayor stressed that the Mobondo militiamen acted in retaliation for operations carried out by the army in their stronghold, the village of Kitshakala.
The relative calm that currently reigns in Pont Kwango is precarious, especially as the local authorities face the threat of mass population displacements to other villages. The soldiers present on site ensure the safety of the inhabitants and have restricted access to certain areas, particularly forests, for security reasons.
As they await further directives from the competent authorities and the evolution of the situation, the inhabitants of Pont Kwango oscillate between hope and fear. They are showing resilience in the face of recent events and hope for a return to peace and stability in their community. Solidarity and vigilance are required to preserve the tranquility of this village in the Kenge territory, where the future remains uncertain but the will to live in peace remains intact.