BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of Congo — March 15, 2026 — Voters across the Republic of Congo cast their ballots Sunday in a presidential election that could prolong President Denis Sassou Nguesso’s decades‑long hold on power, as opposition groups raised concerns about fairness and transparency in the process.
Polling stations in the capital, Brazzaville, opened early in the morning, with election officials reporting a steady turnout despite heavy rain in some districts. Local observers said voting proceeded calmly in most areas, though delays were reported in parts of the Pool and Likouala regions due to logistical issues.
Sassou Nguesso, 82, is one of Africa’s longest‑serving leaders. He first took office in 1979, left briefly after the country’s 1992 elections, and returned to power following the 1997 civil conflict. Constitutional changes approved in 2015 removed age and term limits, allowing him to run again. His supporters argue that his experience provides stability, while critics say the political system leaves little room for genuine competition.
Several opposition candidates, including economist Alain Mampouya and former minister Guy Brice Parfait Kolélas’s party representatives, urged voters to remain vigilant. Some opposition groups claimed that state resources heavily favored the incumbent, a charge the government denies. Independent civil society monitors said they would release preliminary assessments after polls close.
The electoral commission stated that results would be compiled over the coming days. As of Sunday evening, no official tallies had been released. Under Congo’s election law, the commission must announce provisional results before they are reviewed and certified by the Constitutional Court.
International attention remains focused on the vote, with regional organizations such as the African Union and ECCAS deploying small observer teams. Analysts note that Congo’s economy—heavily dependent on oil—faces persistent challenges, and many voters say they want improvements in jobs, infrastructure, and public services.
Early results or projections had not been issued by any major outlets at the time of reporting. As always, it’s best to confirm election updates through trusted, official sources as the count progresses.