The Republic of Congo has officially installed a new commander of its national gendarmerie, General Gildas Olangué. The installation ceremony took place on September 25, 2026, in Brazzaville, and was presided over by the Minister of Interior and Decentralization, Jean Olessongo Ondaye. General Olangué was promoted to the rank of brigadier general by President Denis Sassou N'Guesso on September 24, 2026.
General Olangué succeeds General Gervais Akouangué, who had served in the position previously. The new commander has a long and distinguished career in the Congolese armed forces, joining in 1988 and graduating from the Marien-Ngouabi Military Academy in Brazzaville between 1991 and 1993. He has also received training at the École de guerre du Cameroun and has completed various high-level courses in France.
Throughout his career, General Olangué has held various positions, including commanding the gendarmerie regions of Kouilou, Pool, and Brazzaville. He has also participated in several international and national peacekeeping and security operations. The new commander has pledged to modernize the national gendarmerie, prioritize human resource development, and enhance protection for the population and their property.
General Olangué's background includes being an alumnus of the Victor Fiantou promotion of the École des enfants de troupe (AET). He is also a skilled sportsman, having played volleyball as a "Diable Rouge" and practicing various combat sports, including judo and karate. He is married and has five children.
The installation ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials from the security forces and administrative authorities. Minister Ondaye emphasized the importance of obedience to the new commander, citing the need for strict adherence to regulations, laws, and the Constitution. He also highlighted General Olangué's role in ensuring the success of the national gendarmerie.
General Olangué's appointment was formalized through Decree No. 2026-288, dated August 17, 2026. The decree was read out during the installation ceremony by the Director General of Administration and Human Resources at the Ministry of Interior. The new commander takes over a critical role in maintaining security and order in the Republic of Congo.
As the new commander of the national gendarmerie, General Olangué faces the task of addressing security challenges in the region. His experience and training make him well-equipped to tackle these challenges and lead the gendarmerie in its mission to protect the population and maintain peace and stability.
Key points
- General Gildas Olangué was installed as the new commander of the Republic of Congo's national gendarmerie on September 25, 2026.
- General Olangué has a long career in the Congolese armed forces, with experience in various positions and international training.
- The new commander has pledged to modernize the national gendarmerie and prioritize human resource development.
