Republic of Congo profile – BBC News

2002 March – Intense fighting between government and “Ninja” rebels drives many thousands of civilians from their homes in Pool region. The rebels, loyal to former PM Bernard Kolelas and led by renegade priest Pastor Ntumi, name themselves after the famous Japanese warriors.

2002 June – Government troops battle Ninja rebels in Brazzaville. About 100 people are killed.

2003 March – Government signs deals with Ninja rebels aimed at ending fighting in Pool region. Ninja leader Pastor Ntumi agrees to end hostilities and allow the return of the rule of law.

2004 June – World diamond trade watchdog removes Congo from list of countries recognised as dealing legitimately in diamonds.

2005 April – Government says a group of army officers, arrested in January over an arms theft, had been planning a coup.

2005 October – Former PM Bernard Kolelas is allowed home to bury his wife after eight years in exile, during which he was sentenced to death on war crimes charges. He is given an amnesty in November.

2006 January – Congo is chosen to lead the African Union in 2006 after disagreements within the body about Sudan’s leadership bid.

President Sassou Nguesso accuses France of interfering in his country’s affairs, following a decision by a French appeal court to reopen an investigation into the disappearance of more than 350 refugees in 1999.

2007 June – Former “Ninja” rebels led by renegade Pastor Frederic Ntumi ceremoniously burn their weapons to demonstrate their commitment to peace.

2007 June-August – Parliamentary elections, boycotted by some 40 parties. Ruling party wins 90% of seats.