Djibouti’s parliament has unanimously voted to remove the presidential age limit, paving the way for President Ismail Omar Guelleh, 77, to seek re-election in April 2026.
Previously, the country’s constitution barred anyone over 75 years old from contesting the presidency. Sunday’s vote by all 65 members of parliament abolished that restriction, effectively enabling Guelleh — who has ruled since 1999 — to extend his more than two-decade hold on power.
The amendment will still require the president’s formal approval before being confirmed by another parliamentary vote in early November.
The move has sparked criticism on social media, though gauging public sentiment remains difficult given tight restrictions on freedom of speech and the press.
Guelleh’s long rule has made Djibouti one of Africa’s most stable yet authoritarian states. Despite its small size and population, the country occupies a strategic position at the entrance to the Red Sea, hosting several foreign military bases, including those of the United States, France, and Japan.
If Guelleh decides to run again, the 2026 election could extend his presidency into a fifth decade, reinforcing his status as one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
