The Republic of Congo’s President, Denis Sassou Nguesso, has secured a fifth consecutive term in office, according to provisional election results. The victory extends his tenure to nearly 42 years in power, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in Africa.
On Tuesday, Interior Minister Raymond Zephirin Mboulou announced the figures on state television. The data showed that Sassou Nguesso received 94.82% of the vote in Sunday’s election.
Low Turnout and Election Boycotts
While state media reported a voter turnout of 84.65%, witnesses in the capital, Brazzaville, noted a different scene. Many polling stations reportedly had very short lines or were entirely empty throughout the day.
The 82-year-old incumbent was widely expected to win. Analysts and diplomats noted that he faced six opponents who lacked his political profile and resources. Furthermore, two major political parties chose to boycott the process entirely. They cited unfair practices and the ongoing imprisonment of key opposition figures.
Specifically, General Jean-Marie Michel Mokoko and Andre Okombi Salissa have remained in prison for nearly a decade.
Internet Shutdowns and Restricted Freedoms
As has become common during presidential votes in the region, the government shut down the internet and restricted traffic across the capital. Clarisse Massamba, a teacher who cast her vote at the Lycée Javoueh in Brazzaville, shared her thoughts with The Associated Press:
“Everyone knows that, faced with his six inexperienced opponents, President Denis Sassou Nguesso will be re-elected with a high score as usual. Since the election is not a big issue, we shouldn’t cut off communication.”
The campaign itself was marked by a significant power imbalance. Sassou Nguesso was the only candidate with the means to travel across the entire country to meet voters. Meanwhile, human rights groups raised alarms regarding the political climate. Joe Washington Ebina, a Congolese activist, told Reuters that several opposition parties were suspended and public gatherings were under heavy surveillance.
Economic Struggles Amidst Long Rule
Despite being rich in minerals and oil, the Republic of Congo faces a mounting financial crisis. World Bank data indicates the country’s international debt has reached 94.5% of its gross domestic product (GDP).
Sassou Nguesso’s long history of leadership began in 1979. He ruled until 1992 before returning to power in 1997 following a four-month civil war. In 2015, he oversaw a constitutional referendum that removed both age and term limits, a move that cleared the path for his continued presidency.
