Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea’s President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, who has ruled the country for 43 years, has confirmed he will stand again in November’s elections.
His son and Vice President, Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, made the announcement via Twitter on Friday saying it was "Because of his charisma, his leadership and his political experience.”
Obiang’s Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea holds 99 of the 100 seats in the outgoing lower house of parliament and all 70 of the senate seats.
Over the years the country has become increasingly dependent on oil and gas, which makes up around 75 percent of revenue, which is mostly in the hands of a small number of people.
There had been speculation that Obiang’s son may be selected as the party’s candidate but Friday’s announcement confirmed the president would be seeking to extend his unrivalled rule.
01:12
US President Trump announces surprise summit with five African Nations
01:47
Sierra Leone’s Bio takes over as ECOWAS chair
Go to video
Togo suspends French state-owned broadcasters RFI and France 24
Go to video
Protesters gather in Ivory Coast, demand Thiam's return on electoral list
02:13
Cameroon: Police, opposition supporters clash as election looms
01:25
Burundi awaits results of local and parliamentary elections