Denis Sassou-Nguesso

Denis Sassou-Nguesso, a military officer, became President of the People's Republic of the Congo after a coup that ousted President Joachim Yhombi-Opango. He led the Congolese Party of Labour (PCT).

Under pressure, Sassou-Nguesso's government introduced multi-party politics, ending the one-party Marxist-Leninist system. A national conference was held in 1991, leading to a transition to civilian rule.

Sassou-Nguesso lost the 1992 presidential election to Pascal Lissouba. This was the first multi-party election in the country since independence, and Sassou-Nguesso peacefully handed over power.

Sassou-Nguesso's militia, backed by Angolan troops, captured Brazzaville, overthrowing President Pascal Lissouba. This ended a four-month civil war and returned Sassou-Nguesso to the presidency.

Sassou-Nguesso won the 2002 presidential election with over 89% of the vote. The election was boycotted by major opposition candidates and criticized as neither free nor fair.

Sassou-Nguesso's government held a constitutional referendum that removed the age limit and two-term limit for the presidency. The change allowed him to run for re-election in 2016 and potentially remain in power.