Congo President Denis Sassou Nguesso holds final rally before election
## Presidential Election in Congo-Brazzaville
Presidential Election in Congo-Brazzaville
Denis Sassou Nguesso, the President of Congo-Brazzaville, conducted his final rally in Brazzaville on Fri, Mar 13, 2026, ahead of the presidential election scheduled for Sun, Mar 15, 2026. At 82 years old, and after over 40 years in power, Sassou Nguesso is the leading candidate in the upcoming election.
Election Context and Political Landscape
The opposition in Congo-Brazzaville is fragmented and largely inactive, which may lead to a significantly low voter turnout. Sassou Nguesso is among Africa's longest-serving leaders, alongside counterparts from Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon.
Sassou Nguesso first led the country from 1979 to 1992 under a one-party system. Following a defeat in multi-party elections, he regained power in 1997 after a civil war. His tenure has been extended through constitutional reforms removing term limits, despite ongoing corruption allegations.
Denis Sassou Nguesso, the President of Congo-Brazzaville, conducted his final rally in Brazzaville on Fri, Mar 13, 2026, ahead of the presidential election scheduled for Sun, Mar 15, 2026.
Six candidates are competing against Sassou Nguesso, but most lack substantial resources compared to the ruling Congolese Labour Party (PCT). The main opposition parties have opted out of the election, citing unmet conditions for a fair electoral process.
Jean-Marie Michel Mokoko and André Okombi Salissa, who previously ran against Sassou Nguesso, are currently serving 20-year sentences for charges related to state security.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
