Djibouti’s President Secures Another Term Amid Questionable Elections

President Ismael Omar Guelleh won his sixth term in Djibouti, capturing 97. 8% of the vote according to state media. The result extends his 27‑year hold over the small nation that sits at the mouth of the Red Sea. Guelleh posted a photo with the French word “RÉÉLU” on X, meaning re‑elected. Djibouti has a population of under one million and hosts several foreign military bases, including those from the United States, China, France, Italy, and Japan. In recent years, ships have come to the port after attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels damaged them elsewhere. The election saw only one opposition candidate, Mohamed Farah Samatar, who represents a minor party with no seats in parliament. Two major opposition parties have been absent from the vote since 2016, claiming that election officials are not impartial. The government says voter turnout was 80. 4%, a figure that echoes the 97% win in 2021.Guelleh was chosen to replace his uncle Hassan Gouled Aptidon in 1999, and his party controls most national institutions. In October last year, the parliament removed the 75‑year age limit for presidents and eliminated a required referendum to change the constitution. These moves have been criticized as ways to keep power in one hand. While Djibouti remains relatively stable compared to other Horn of Africa countries, critics point out that the government suppresses political rivals, activists, and journalists. Human rights groups say authorities crack down on dissent. The government denies widespread abuses and rejects criticism of the electoral process. In 2020, security forces ended a small protest sparked by the arrest of an ex‑air force pilot who accused officials of corruption and clan bias. The incident highlighted tensions between the regime and civil society. Overall, the election results reinforce Guelleh’s dominance but raise concerns about democratic fairness and political freedom in Djibouti.