Congolese opposition leader dies of covid-19 complications

“My dear compatriots, I am in trouble, I am fighting death, but nevertheless I ask you to stand up. Go and vote for change. I will not have fought for nothing. Fight for it. I will not have fought for nothing. “

Those were the last call of Congolese opposition leader Guy-Brice Parfait Kolelas to his compatriots while battling covid-19 complications.

Kolelas, 60, died of covid-19 complications, his campaigner manager said.

The main rival of President Denis Sassou Nguesso in Sunday’s presidential election, died in a medical plane enroute to France.

Campaign manager, Rodrigue Mayanda told newsmen that the deceased was in the lead in many localities, adding that ”we will continue to count the ballot”.

The opponent had tested positive for Covid-19 on Friday afternoon. Kolelas was unable to hold his last campaign meeting in Brazzaville, the Congolese political capital.

A few hours before the election, the 60-year old posted a video in which he claimed “to fight against death”.

A historic opponent, Mr. Kolelas, emerged this year as the only real rival of the outgoing president Sasssou Nguesso, 77.

After 36 years in power, the latter did not hide his desire to be re-elected in the first round of polls Sunday. Election results are not expected until several days.

Hauwa Mustapha