The National Assembly of Djibouti voted unanimously on October 26, 2025 to remove the age limit of 75 for presidential candidates, a measure that could allow President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh to seek a sixth term in April 2026.
The Parliament of Djibouti voted on October 26 in favor of lifting the age limit for the presidency, paving the way for a possible sixth-term candidacy by President Ismaïl Omar. The constitution previously set the maximum age for candidacy at 75, but the 77-year-old head of state could now run again in 2026, pending final approval of the reform.
The bill is a proposal from Parliament, amending certain articles of the Constitution, in line with the aspirations of the people of Djibouti. I would like to first congratulate the President of the National Assembly for the initiative he has taken, with the approval of all the parliamentarians, to concretely translate into reality the popular will of the women and men of Djibouti. We hope that the honorable representatives of the people will follow through on this proposal in practice.
Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed, Prime Minister – Djibouti
President since 1999 and re-elected in April 2021 with a landslide 97% of the vote, Ismaïl Omar enjoys the support of his followers, who emphasize the stability he has brought to Djibouti, a relatively peaceful territory in the conflict-ridden Horn of Africa. Critics, however, warn of a concentration of power and the weakening of democratic renewal.
In a democratic country, strong institutions are needed rather than strong leaders. In Djibouti, however, the recent constitutional amendment allowing President Omar Guelleh to run again by bypassing the age limit shows that the constitution is serving one man instead of remaining neutral for everyone. To address the perception that the law has been tailored for a single individual, the democratic process should allow other candidates to run with alternative platforms, so the people can decide. This will show whether President Omar Guelleh’s popular support can withstand genuine electoral competition in the upcoming elections.
Kerwin Mayizo, DR Congo
The reform must still be approved on November 2 before taking effect, making the 2026 election a pivotal moment for the country.
