MWE Correspondent
President Denis Sassou Nguesso of Congo-Brazzaville has announced that he will once again run for the presidency in elections scheduled for March, a decision that could further extend his time in power beyond four decades.
The 82-year-old leader made the announcement on Thursday, confirming long-standing expectations that he would seek to remain at the helm of the Central African nation.
Mr. Sassou Nguesso is one of Africa’s most enduring political figures. He first became president in 1979, lost power in the early 1990s, and returned to office in 1997 after a period of civil conflict. Since then, he has maintained a firm grip on power, shaping much of the modern political landscape of Congo-Brazzaville and placing himself among the continent’s longest-serving heads of state.
In explaining his decision, the president said the country still needs experienced leadership to maintain stability and manage economic and security challenges. Allies within his governing circle argue that continuity is essential, pointing to state-led development projects and efforts to keep the country politically stable in a region that has often experienced unrest.
At the same time, the announcement has revived debate over democracy and political renewal. Opposition leaders and civil society groups have repeatedly questioned the fairness of past elections and raised concerns about limited political space. For critics, the March vote will be a crucial moment to assess whether the electoral process can allow genuine competition and public choice.
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Congo-Brazzaville remains heavily dependent on oil revenues, leaving the economy vulnerable to global price fluctuations. Despite government assurances of reform, many people continue to struggle with unemployment and rising living costs. These economic pressures are likely to influence public opinion as the campaign season unfolds.
Regionally and internationally, President Sassou Nguesso’s candidacy adds to ongoing discussions about long-term leadership in Africa. Across the continent, debates over presidential term limits in Africa have intensified, with many citizens calling for stronger democratic institutions and smoother political transitions. Supporters of term limits argue that leadership change is vital for accountability, while defenders of extended rule often cite stability and experience.
As preparations for the March election gather pace, attention will turn to the conduct of the campaign, the role of state institutions, and the participation of opposition candidates. Observers are also expected to watch closely how electoral laws are applied and whether the vote meets regional and international standards.
For President Sassou Nguesso, another election bid represents both continuity and controversy. His long career, detailed in his political profile, has left a deep mark on the country’s history. Whether voters will endorse an extension of his rule or push for change will become clear when Congolese head to the polls, in a contest that is likely to draw close attention from across Africa and beyond.
