Djibouti’s parliament voted unanimously on Sunday to scrap the presidential age limit of 75, a move that clears the way for current president Ismail Omar Guelleh, aged 77, to contest next year’s election.
With the amendment, Guelleh who has been in power since 1999, can now seek another term in the April 2026 presidential race if he chooses.
Previously, the country’s constitution barred anyone older than 75 from running for president. But all 65 members of parliament supported removing the restriction, effectively extending the political lifespan of the long-serving leader.
The amendment still awaits Guelleh’s own formal approval before being confirmed by another parliamentary vote in early November.
The decision sparked mild reactions on social media, though it’s difficult to gauge public sentiment due to tight restrictions on free speech and press freedom in Djibouti.
President Guelleh has led the nation for over 26 years, maintaining firm control in what observers describe as an authoritarian system.
Despite its small size and population, Djibouti remains strategically vital due to its position in the Horn of Africa, hosting several foreign military bases, including those of the United States, France, and Japan.
