Djibouti’s long-serving president Ismaïl Omar Guelleh has been re-elected for a sixth term, securing an overwhelming 97.8 percent of the vote, according to official results released by the interior ministry.
Guelleh defeated his only challenger, Mohamed Farah Samatar, who garnered just 2.2 percent, reflecting the absence of strong political competition. Even before the final announcement, Guelleh had declared victory on social media as early results indicated a decisive lead.
At 78, Guelleh has ruled the country for 27 years, maintaining firm control over the political landscape. His leadership has been closely tied to Djibouti’s strategic position along the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which has enabled the nation to host military bases from global powers such as France, the United States, China, Japan, and Italy—providing significant economic and geopolitical leverage.
The election outcome had been widely anticipated, with many observers noting the limited visibility and support of the opposition candidate. Samatar, leader of the Unified Democratic Centre, lacks parliamentary representation and struggled to mobilize a substantial voter base.
Although some polling stations experienced delays, the voting process unfolded under tight security, and turnout appeared modest in several areas. Public sentiment also reflected the imbalance in the race, with some voters expressing little awareness of the opposition.
Guelleh, who had previously indicated plans to step down, was able to run again following a constitutional amendment removing the upper age limit for presidential candidates. His re-election further extends a political era marked by stability claims but also persistent concerns over democratic inclusiveness.
Source: AfricaNews
