Djibouti's Guelleh secures sixth term with 97.81% of vote

The election proceeded without major incidents, according to electoral authorities. Politicians removed presidential age limits last year, clearing the path for Guelleh's latest five-year term despite his advanced age.

Major opposition parties boycotted the election, continuing a pattern established since 2016. The Alliance for Democracy and Justice and Movement for Democratic Renewal refused participation, citing a lack of transparency and state control over the electoral process.

By the grace of God, we have arrived here, and we hope that this will end in victory

Ismail Omar Guelleh — to reporters while voting

The opposition has called for a "negotiated democratic transition under international community auspices" rather than participating in what they consider predetermined elections.

Djibouti's strategic importance stems from its position controlling the Bab al-Mandeb strait, a crucial shipping lane connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. The country hosts military bases for five major powers: France, the United States, China, Japan, and Italy.

This military presence generates significant revenue for the small nation of 23,000 square kilometers, while providing security guarantees that have helped maintain Guelleh's long tenure. The bases serve as a hedge against regional instability affecting neighbors Somalia, Ethiopia, and Eritrea.

Guelleh's previous victory in 2021 delivered 98 percent of votes, establishing a pattern of overwhelming electoral dominance. His rule began in 1999, making him one of Africa's longest-serving leaders.

The constitutional changes eliminating term limits in 2010 sparked the opposition boycotts that have characterized recent elections. Critics argue the modifications undermined democratic competition and entrenched authoritarian rule.