Internet blackout as Congo votes, with Sassou Nguesso set to win

An electoral agent counts the ballots at a polling station during the presidential election in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo March 21, 2021. — REUTERS

The Republic of Congo voted Sunday in a presidential election boycotted by the main opposition and under an internet blackout, with critics voicing concerns over the transparency of the polls seen as tilted towards veteran leader Denis Sassou Nguesso.

There were no reports of major incidents before polling stations closed, but AFP correspondents said access to the internet and social media, as well as text messages, was cut.