Opposition leader Guy-Brice Parfe Colelas, the main rival of incumbent Congolese President Denis Sasu Ngeso in yesterday’s election, has died as a result of COVID-19 on a plane taken to France for treatment, his campaign director told AFP. .
“He died on the medical plane that came to pick him up from Brazzaville yesterday afternoon,” said Christian Sir Mayanda.
“The vote count will continue. He was in charge in some places,” the campaign director added, urging Colelas supporters to gather for a rally today.
The 61-year-old oppositionist was tested for covid on Friday afternoon and failed to take part in his last campaign in Brazzaville. Hours before the election, he posted a video in which he said he was fighting death and called on his compatriots to stand up.
“Go and vote for change. So I will not fight in vain. Rise as one. Make me happy. I am fighting in my bed with death. You are fighting for your change. It is about the future of your children,” he said. video Colelas before putting back his oxygen mask.
Colelas emerged this year as the only real opponent of 77-year-old Sasu Ngeso, who has been in power for 36 years and made no secret of his desire to be re-elected in yesterday’s first round of elections, the results of which will be known in a few days.
–
