Slow Start to Voting in Djibouti Election

Voting has begun in Djibouti’s presidential election, but the day started with low turnout, as only a small number of people appeared at polling stations during the early morning hours in the capital.

More than 256,000 citizens are eligible to vote, though officials expect turnout may increase later in the day.

The election is widely expected to give President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh a sixth term in office, extending his rule to nearly 30 years. Guelleh has led the country since 1999 and remains the dominant political figure in the race.

His challenger, Mohamed Farah Samatar, is a lesser-known opposition figure whose campaign has reportedly struggled to attract attention or public support.

A recent constitutional change removing the presidential age limit allowed Guelleh to run again, further strengthening expectations that the result will favor the incumbent.

With results expected later today, many observers believe the election outcome is largely predictable unless turnout or voting patterns shift significantly.

Source: Newstimehub