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Today in History: Lissouba arrests Sassou Nguesso, triggers second civil war

6/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On 5 June 1997, President Pascal Lissouba ordered the arrest of former ruler Denis Sassou Nguesso, sparking the Second Republic of the Congo Civil War. The conflict pitted militias loyal to three candidates and lasted until December 1999, ending only after Angolan forces intervened and restored Sassou Nguesso to the presidency.

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Story summary

On 5 June 1997, President Pascal Lissouba ordered the arrest of former ruler Denis Sassou Nguesso, sparking the Second Republic of the Congo Civil War. The conflict pitted militias loyal to three candidates and lasted until December 1999, ending only after Angolan forces intervened and restored Sassou Nguesso to the presidency.