Observers note low turnout in Congo-Brazzaville presidential polls
Polling stations in the Republic of Congo have concluded voting for the recent elections, anticipated to extend President Denis Sassou Nguesso's tenure. The 82-year-old incumbent faced minimal opposition, with prominent opposition leaders incarcerated…
Polling stations in the Republic of Congo have concluded voting for the recent elections, anticipated to extend President Denis Sassou Nguesso's tenure. The 82-year-old incumbent faced minimal opposition, with prominent opposition leaders incarcerated and several parties abstaining from participation.
Six candidates contested against Sassou Nguesso, but the opposition remains fragmented, likely resulting in another five-year term for the president. Observers anticipate low voter turnout, reflecting the expected outcome of the elections. During the campaign, which concluded on Fri, Sassou Nguesso, supported by the Congolese Workers' Party (PCT), encouraged voter participation.
At a polling station in Brazzaville's Ouenze district, there was minimal voter activity by 9:00 am local time. Other stations experienced delays in receiving election materials, although polls were scheduled to open at 7:00 am. Some voters declined media interactions, while one supporter openly expressed confidence in Sassou Nguesso's victory.
Post-voting on Sunday, the president expressed optimism regarding his campaign promises and the implementation of development projects contingent on his election. Despite claims of stability under his leadership, rights groups criticize the government's treatment of opposition activists. Prominent figures from the 2016 elections, General Jean-Marie Michel Mokoko and Andre Okombi Salissa, are serving 20-year sentences for alleged threats to internal security.
Polling stations in the Republic of Congo have concluded voting for the recent elections, anticipated to extend President Denis Sassou Nguesso's tenure.
President Sassou Nguesso highlighted his administration's economic achievements, focusing on infrastructure modernization and advancements in the gas and agriculture sectors to promote self-sufficiency. Oil and gas remain the primary sources of state revenue, with projected economic growth of 2.9 percent by 2025. However, over half the population lives below the poverty line, with critics citing misappropriation of state oil revenues by officials.
The government faces several criminal investigations, particularly in France. While Sassou Nguesso's re-election is likely, constitutional limits prevent him from running in 2031, prompting discussions on succession. Although he has stated his intention not to remain indefinitely in power, no successor has been identified.
Sassou Nguesso has held a prominent role in Congo-Brazzaville's political landscape since 1979, initially under a one-party system. After losing in 1992's multi-party elections, he returned to power following a civil war in 1997. Subsequent re-elections in 2002, 2009, 2016, and 2021 have faced criticism regarding transparency and fairness. Congo-Brazzaville, a key oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa, continues to rely heavily on hydrocarbons, which contribute significantly to export earnings.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
