00:00Since late February, the Republic of Congo has been buzzing with the March 15th presidential campaign.
00:06Among seven candidates, incumbent Denis Saswen-Gueso was the first to act,
00:12kicking off his bid with a huge rally in Pantanoir, the economic capital.
00:16With over 40 years in power, Saswen-Gueso exudes confidence,
00:20and many are skeptical about the opposition's chances against the ruling party.
00:25The PCT already has victory in hand.
00:28What can we say? Do the other candidates have the means?
00:31It's already won, in my opinion.
00:34There are concerns over electoral governance.
00:37Tonon Lapage Congo, a coalition of 14 NGOs, has reported post-election irregularities and issued recommendations.
00:44The recommendations we've made to improve electoral governance remain a concern.
00:51An election must take place under conditions of transparency, fairness and equality.
00:56Yet this one is happening somewhat behind closed doors.
01:05For the ruling majority, however, it's easier said than done.
01:14We cannot doubt the president's commitment to making Congo a rich and prosperous country.
01:19Elections are held every five years, so electoral cycles are regular.
01:26Observers say voter turnout will be critical.
01:29Denis Saswen-Gueso also wants as many people at the ballots as possible.
01:35Take care.
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