At 72 Dennis Sassou Nguesso is one of Africa’s oldest and longest serving presidents. He’s been in power for 32 years and On Sunday he wants another 5 years.
Last Year Nguesso pushed through constitutional changes to remove term and age limits that would have prevented him from seeking re-election. His supporters credit him with developing the oil rich producing central African country’s development and stability since a 1997 civil war.
” When you go around the country all you see is peace. from the North to the south People are just enjoying Peace . they are happy with how far Congo has come . Some tell Me Mr president there’s a little bit of trouble here in Brazzaville but soon we know even here it will be peaceful” Said President Dennis Sassou Nguesso
Seven other candidates want to deny Nguesso a chance to remain in power. They include former army chief Jean-Marie Mokoko and Guy Brice, Parfait Kolelas, who led protests and an opposition boycott against last years referendum.
The opposition is already crying foul with allegations of fraud that include voter bribery and registration of voters in multiple polling stations. They also accuse the electoral commission of partiality and say they will not accept what they call tainted results.
The EU too is keeping off the vote. Its says it will not be sending an observer team but authorities are seemingly unmoved by the criticism. They say the EU is quote FREE not to send observers. They’ve also accused the opposition of Anarchy and trying to incite violence.
