In Congo-Brazzaville, the presidential election is set for March 15, 2026, and President Denis Sassou-Nguesso, at 82 years old and with over four decades in power, will be a candidate. Leading up to the election, a political consultation took place from February 16 to 18 in Djambala, where various political actors convened to discuss recommendations aimed at improving the electoral organization. However, many participants left the event feeling dissatisfied with the preparations for the upcoming election.

The consultation's duration was unexpectedly shortened from four days to three, which raised concerns among attendees about the adequacy of the discussions. Séraphin Ondélé, the cabinet director of the Minister of the Interior, summarized some of the key recommendations, emphasizing the need for increased transparency in the electoral process. Despite these recommendations, the general sentiment among participants was one of frustration, suggesting significant challenges ahead for the political climate in Congo-Brazzaville.

As the presidential election approaches, the disappointment expressed by participants in this political consultation casts a shadow on the electoral process and raises questions about the government's commitment to a fair and transparent election. The historical context of President Sassou-Nguesso's long tenure and the various political dynamics at play suggest that the upcoming election will be fraught with tension and skepticism regarding the legitimacy of the outcomes.