The Republic of the Congo is voting on Sunday in a presidential election widely expected to extend the decades-long rule of Denis Sassou Nguesso, 82, for another five years.
Two of the country’s most prominent opposition leaders remain in detention, while others live in exile. Several opposition parties are boycotting the vote, arguing that the electoral process lacks credibility.
More than 3.2 million Congolese are registered to vote. However, analysts and civil society organizations expect turnout to fall below the roughly 68% recorded in 2021, when Sassou won 88.4% of the vote.
Sassou first seized power in the oil-producing Central African state in 1979 and has ruled the country almost continuously since then, except for a five-year interruption in the 1990s.
He is contesting the election against six relatively unknown candidates, none of whom are considered serious challengers, amid the dominance of figures loyal to the ruling Congolese Labour Party over electoral institutions.
Human rights organizations say political space has narrowed in recent years, citing the arrests of activists and the suspension of party activities. Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso has denied accusations of bias in favor of Sassou, saying that oversight bodies in Congo will ensure a transparent and fair election.
During his campaign, Sassou emphasized continuity, pledging to accelerate development projects and expand access to education and vocational training.
The economy, heavily dependent on oil, has stabilized in recent years after a prolonged downturn. However, 52% of Congo’s population of 6.1 million still lives below the poverty line, according to the World Bank. Preliminary election results are expected within 48 to 72 hours after polling stations close.