Results from the Republic of the Congo's presidential election are expected to be announced in the coming days. The election, held on March 12, 2026, saw incumbent President Denis Sassou Nguesso seek a new five-year term.
President Sassou Nguesso, who first came to power in 1979 and has ruled for a total of over 40 years, faced several challengers. However, a significant portion of the opposition, including key figures like former minister and candidate Guy Brice Parfait KolΓ©las, called for a boycott of the vote, citing a lack of transparency and an unfair electoral process.
Preliminary reports from observers indicated a low voter turnout in some urban centers, particularly in the southern region and the capital Brazzaville, which is considered an opposition stronghold. The government, however, reported strong participation in other areas.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) is responsible for tallying and announcing the official results. The final outcome will determine the leadership of the oil-producing Central African nation for the next term.