Republic of Congo votes in election that could extend Sassou's 42-year rule

"The Republic of Congo, the third-largest oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa and a producer of liquefied natural gas (LNG), is one of the most politically repressive countries in the world, with Freedom House giving it a 17 out of 100 rating for freedom."

"Sassou, 82, seized power in 1979 and has governed almost continuously since, except for a five-year hiatus in the 1990s. He is running against six little-known candidates, with analysts saying none of them can mount a significant challenge against the incumbent, who has been in power for nearly 42 years."

"Two other major parties are boycotting the elections over allegations of unfair electoral practices. Two of the country's best-known opposition leaders are in prison, while others are in exile. Some Congolese, therefore, say they see little chance for change."

The Republic of Congo held a presidential election with incumbent Denis Sassou Nguesso, 82, running for a fifth term. Major political parties boycotted the election citing unfair electoral practices. Sassou has governed for nearly 42 years since seizing power in 1979, with only a five-year interruption in the 1990s. He faces six little-known candidates unable to mount significant challenges. Over 3.2 million Congolese are registered to vote, though turnout is expected below the 68 percent recorded in 2021 when Sassou won with 88.4 percent. The Republic of Congo, a major oil and LNG producer, ranks among the world's most politically repressive nations with a Freedom House rating of 17 out of 100. Key opposition leaders remain imprisoned or exiled.

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