Congolese President Denis Sassou Nguesso has confirmed he will stand in the upcoming presidential election set for March 15.

The 82-year-old made the announcement before thousands of people in Brazzaville during the opening of a major trade fair.

Nguesso has been at the helm of Congo Republic for more than four decades, with only a brief break between 1992 and 1997. His declaration follows his party, the Congolese Labour Party, formally endorsing him as its candidate at its congress in December, leaving little doubt about his intentions.

The official deadline for submitting candidates is February 12, while the election campaign is scheduled to run from February 28 to March 13.

Clément Mierassa, leader of the Congolese Social Democratic Party, responded to the announcement, saying; “President Nguesso’s decision to stand again is a reminder of the longstanding political dominance in our country. While every citizen has the right to seek office, it is vital that the upcoming elections are conducted transparently and fairly, giving space for genuine competition.”

–ChannelAfrica–