Republic of Congo country profile
Denis Sassou Nguesso is one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, having first come to power almost four decades ago.
He was installed as president by the military in 1979 but lost his position in the first multi-party elections in 1992.
He returned to power in 1997 after a brief civil war in which he was backed by Angolan troops.
During his first presidency, he loosened links with the Soviet bloc and gave Western companies roles in oil exploration and production.
By BBC