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MALABO – The authorities in Equatorial Guinea announced on Saturday the re-election of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo for a sixth term.

The 80-year-old has been in power since 1979. Announcing the results, the head of the electoral commission said Obiang had won with 94,9 percent of the votes.

“The results of the general election solemnly proclaim His Excellency Obiang Nguema Mbasogo President of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea for a term of seven years,” said the head of the electoral commission Faustino Ndong Esono Eyang.

President Obiang had the backing of a coalition of 15 parties, including his own party, the Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea.

The percentages won by the opposition candidates were not announced.

“The opposition talked about small irregularities, which is what we have seen on the ground. But these irregularities, imperfections, are not such as to mar the overall good conduct of this November 20 election,” said electoral observer Jean Marie Ngondjibanganté.

Weeks before the scrutiny, security forces arrested thwarted a “conspiracy” to commit attacks in the capital Malabo and economic hub, Bata. – Africanews.