The Republic of the Congo's President Denis Sassou-Nguesso, aged 82, has been reelected for a fifth term with 94.82 % of the March 15 vote, extending his nearly 42-year rule, according to provisional results announced on state television, Reuters reported on March 17. Official turnout was reported at 84.65 %, though observers noted low participation at many polling stations.

  The March election featured six minor challengers and was held under the tight control of the ruling party, with major opposition parties largely boycotting the vote and key opposition leaders remaining imprisoned. The campaign period and voting day were marked by restrictions, including arrests of activists and a nationwide internet blackout, raising concerns about transparency. Challengers have a five-day window to submit appeals, after which the Constitutional Court has 15 days to review them and release the official results.