Congo: Denis Sassou-Nguesso officially announces his candidacy for the 2026 presidential election
President Denis Sassou-Nguesso of the Republic of the Congo has announced he will run for re-election in the March 2026 presidential poll. The 82-year-old made the declaration publicly on Thursday, backed by his ruling Congolese Labour Party (PCT) and the Presidential Majority coalition.
Having led the country from 1979 to 1992 and again since 1997, Sassou-Nguesso’s candidacy was enabled by a 2015 constitutional revision that removed age and term limits.
He stated his intention to “continue his mission,” positioning himself as a force of stability.
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The announcement comes amid a fragmented opposition, cementing his dominant position ahead of the vote.
However, the campaign will unfold against a backdrop of persistent economic and social challenges for the Central African nation.
The upcoming election marks a new chapter in Congo’s democratic calendar, with the long-standing president framing his bid as a continuation of his governance and institutional legacy.
