Djibouti lifts presidential age limit, paving way for sixth Guelleh term

Djibouti's parliament has eliminated the constitutional age limit of 75 for presidential candidates, allowing Ismail Omar Guelleh, aged 77, to run for a sixth term in the April 2026 elections. The change, backed by all 65 lawmakers present, still needs presidential approval or a national referendum.

Guelleh, in power since 1999, previously introduced the age limit in 2010. National Assembly Speaker Dileita Mohamed Dileita claimed public support for the move exceeds 80 percent, although it remains unverified. However, rights advocates criticized this as a step toward indefinite rule, calling for a democratic transition instead.

Djibouti, with its strategic location, plays a vital geopolitical role, hosting military bases from multiple countries.