Congo Republic President Denis Sassou Nguesso is poised to win Sunday’s election, extending his nearly 42-year rule.
The 82-year-old former paratrooper faces limited opposition, with two main opposition parties boycotting the vote, citing transparency concerns.
Sassou’s potential successors include his son, Denis-Christel Sassou Nguesso, and other family members, sparking speculation about a possible power struggle.
The economy has shown modest growth, driven by oil exports, but poverty and youth unemployment remain pressing issues, with 52% of the population living in poverty and 42% of youth unemployed.
Sassou has promised infrastructure upgrades and economic diversification, but many Congolese citizens feel little improvement in their daily lives.
