Keypoints:
- Age limit removed
- Sixth term pathway opens
- Stability cited by parliament
DJIBOUTI’S parliament has unanimously voted to remove the presidential age limit, clearing the way for long-time leader Ismail Omar Guelleh to consider a sixth term. The amendment was passed on Sunday, fundamentally altering the country’s constitutional framework ahead of the April 2026 election.
The constitution had previously barred anyone older than 75 from contesting the presidency. Guelleh, 77, would have been excluded under the original rules. Supporters of the amendment argue that continuity in leadership remains essential given the geopolitical turbulence across the Horn of Africa.
All 65 legislators present backed the change, according to parliamentary Speaker Dileita Mohamed Dileita. The move suggests significant political consensus within institutions dominated by the president’s ruling coalition.
Next steps require presidential approval
Under Djibouti’s legislative process, the president must now decide whether to approve the amendment or call a national referendum. If endorsed, lawmakers will hold a second confirmation vote on November 2 to finalise the constitutional revision.
Guelleh, widely known as IOG, previously hinted at remaining in office. In a press interview in May, he remarked: ‘All I can tell you is that I love my country too much to embark on an irresponsible adventure and be the cause of divisions.’
His ruling party, the Union for the Presidential Majority, retains a firm grip on both parliament and administrative structures, making further legislative hurdles unlikely.
Supporters argue stability is at stake
Speaker Dileita told AFP that more than 80 percent of Djibouti’s population supports the constitutional change, although independent polling is limited. He emphasised that leadership continuity will bolster internal stability at a time when the region is confronted by conflict and maritime security threats.
Critics, however, say the reform risks entrenching long-term incumbency and narrowing political competition. Opposition voices have historically struggled to gain momentum in a political environment shaped heavily by the ruling alliance.
Guelleh was re-elected in April 2021 with more than 97 percent of the vote. Opposition groups questioned the fairness of the electoral process, citing restricted campaign conditions.
Strategic geography underpins global significance
Despite its population of around one million, Djibouti wields significant influence due to its location at the mouth of the Red Sea. The Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which channels global trade between Asia and Europe, lies directly adjacent to its coastline. A large portion of containerised shipping passes through the narrow maritime corridor, making Djibouti a critical logistics hub.
Foreign militaries — including those from the United States, France, and China — maintain bases in the country, adding an additional layer of geopolitical interest.
Guelleh assumed office in 1999 after serving 22 years as chief of staff to independence figure Hassan Gouled Aptidon. With more than a quarter century in power, the president remains one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
If final approval is granted, Djibouti’s political landscape for the 2026 election will shift considerably, ensuring voters may once again see Guelleh’s name on the ballot.
