78-year-old Djibouti’s president Guelleh wins sixth term; extends 27-year reign

Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh has won election for the sixth time, polling 98 per cent and extending his 27- year reign in the East African country.

Mr Guelleh, who is the second president Djibouti has had since independence in 1977, was announced winner of the poll electoral on the state-owned Radio Television Djibouti on Saturday.

The 78-year-old president won the election with 97.8 per cent of the vote, while only sole challenger Mohamed Farah Samatar polled 2.19 per cent.

The election boycotted by most of the opposition candidates saw Mr Guelleh aiming for another five-year term.

Mr Guelleh’s victory will be ratified by judges on the constitutional council before his inauguration.

Mr Guelleh’s re-election was sealed after an amendment to the Djibouti’s constitution scrapped the 75 years age limit for presidential candiate in November, 2025.