Tens of thousands of supporters filled Gouled Stadium as the ruling Union for the Presidential Majority (UMP) held a high-energy final rally ahead of the upcoming elections.
The stadium reached full capacity hours before the event began, with crowds—many dressed in the party’s signature green—arriving from across the capital and surrounding regions.
The large turnout, which was dominated by young people amid growing political engagement and support for the ruling coalition.
The historic rally showed strength, with supporters chanting slogans and waving party flags throughout the event.
The atmosphere remained vibrant as music and speeches kept the crowd energized.
President Ismail Omar Guelleh arrived in the afternoon alongside First Lady Kadra Mahamoud Haid and senior campaign officials.
He was received with loud chants of “IOG” from supporters as he greeted the crowd.
Despite high temperatures, the stadium remained packed, with many attendees saying their presence demonstrated commitment to the country’s leadership and future direction.
The scale of the mobilisation could strengthen the party’s position as Djibouti heads into a closely watched electoral period.
Presidential elections will be held in Djibouti on 10 April 2026. While term limits have been scrapped in 2010 following a constitutional reform, incumbent president Ismaïl Omar Guelleh who won a fifth term in 2021, has been president since 1999.
