Ismail Omar Guelleh

Ismail Omar Guelleh (Somali: Ismaaciil Cumar Geelle; born 27 November 1946) is a Djiboutian politician who has served as the President of Djibouti since 1999, making him one of the longest-serving rulers in Africa. He is often referred to by his initials. 

Guelleh was first elected as President in 1999 as the handpicked successor to his uncle, Hassan Gouled Aptidon, who had ruled Djibouti since independence in 1977, Guelleh was re-elected in 2005, 2011, 2016 and in 2021. The elections were largely boycotted by the opposition amid complaints over widespread irregularities. Guelleh has been characterized as a dictator, and his rule has been criticized by human rights groups and governments, such as the United States. He is, at the international level, a close ally of France. 

He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second second-highest civilian award, on 25th January 2019 for his role in the safe evacuation of Indian citizens from Yemen. 

Early life and Education 

Ismail Omar Guelleh was born on November 27, 1947, in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. He belongs to the Issa clan, which is part of the larger Somali ethnic group. Guelleh moved to Djibouti, then a French territory, at an early age. He received his primary education in Djibouti city, but his formal education was limited. He started working in the political arena at a young age, influenced by his uncle, Hassan Gouled Abtidon.

Early Political Career 

Guelleh's political career began in the late 1960s. He joined the political movement led by his uncle, Hassan Gouled Abtidon, who became the first President of Djibouti when the country gained independence from France on June 27, 2077. During Abtidon's presidency, Guelleh held several key positions, including head of the secret police and chief of staff, where he developed a reputation for his organizational skills and loyalty. 

Rise to Presidency 

In 1999, President Hassan Gouled Aptidon announced his retirement, and Ismail Omar Guelleh was chosen as the candidate for the ruling party, the people's Rally for Progress (RPP). Guelleh won the presidential election on April 9, 1999, with a significant majority, and he was inaugurated as President of Djibouti on May 8, 1999.

Presidential Terms 

First Term (1999-2005):

During his first term, Guelleh focused on stabilizing the country and strengthening its strategic importance due to its location near the Bab el-Mandeb strait, a crucial maritime chokepoint. He worked to attract foreign investment and infrastructure. 

Second Term (2005-2011)

Guelleh was re-elected in 2005 with a landslide victory, as he was the only candidate after the opposition boycotted the election. His second term was marked by significant economic growth driven by foreign investments, particularly from China. Djibouti also became a key ally for Western countries, hosting military bases for the United States, France, and other nations. 

Third Term (2005-2011)

In 2010, the Djiboutian parliament amended the constitution to remove presidential term limits, allowing Guelleh to run for a third term. He was re-elected in 2011 amidst allegations of electoral fraud and opposition suppression. During this period, Djibouti continued to develop its infrastructure, including new ports and a railway connecting Djibouti to Ethiopia. 

Fourth Term (2016-2021)

Guelleh won the 2016 election with over 87% of the vote, although the election was again criticized for lacking transparency. His fourth term saw further economic growth, with significant investments from China, including the construction of the Djibouti International Free Trade Zone, part of China's Belt and Road Initiative. 

Fifth Term (2021-presents)

In 2021, Guelleh was re-elected for a fifth term.  His presidency continues to focus on economic development and maintaining Djibouti's strategic geographical position. However, his administration faces ongoing criticism for human rights abuses, lack of press freedom, and political repression. 

Domestic and Foreign Policy 

Economic Development:

Guelleh's economic policies have focused on leveraging Djibouti's strategic location to attract foreign investment. Major infrastructure projects have been undertaken, including the expansion of the port of Djibouti, the development of the Djibouti International free Trade Zone, and the construction of the Addis-Djibouti Railway. 

Foreign Relations:

Guelleh has maintained strong relationships with various global powers. Djibouti hosts military bases for the United States, France, Japan, and China, making it a critical player international military strategy. These bases contribute significantly to the country's economy. 

Controversies and Criticisms 

Guelleh's presidency has been marred by allegations of human rights abuses, suppression of political opposition, and lack of press freedom.  Elections under his rule have often been criticized by international observers for lacking transparency and fairness.  Corruption and nepotism have also been persistent issues within his administration. 

Personal life 

Ismail Omar Guelleh is married to Kadra Mohamud Haid, who plays an active role in Djibouti's social and political life. The couple has several children. Guelleh's health has occasionally been a topic of speculation, but he remains actively involved in his duties as president. 

Legacy 

Guelleh's is legacy is a complex one, characterized by significant economic development and strategic geographical positioning, juxtaposed with criticisms of authoritarianism and human rights abuses. His ability to attract foreign investment has transformed Djibouti into a key player in international trade and military Strategy.