Africa is set for a significant electoral year in 2025, with at least nine presidential elections, seven legislative elections, and a series of other contests slated across multiple nations, offering opportunities for citizens to shape their political futures. Key elections include Gabon, Burundi, Malawi, and Cameroon, among others, following various previous political changes such as coups and constitutional reforms.
In 2025, Africa is poised for a significant electoral year, with at least nine presidential elections, seven legislative elections, two senatorial elections, two municipal elections, and two referendums scheduled across various nations. This marks a crucial period for many countries as they navigate their political futures through citizen voting.
Gabon will conduct presidential elections on April 12, following a referendum that approved a new Constitution after a military coup ousted President Ali Bongo in August 2023. Transitional President Gen. Brice Oligui Nguema is anticipated to contest this election.
Burundi plans to hold legislative elections on June 5 and senatorial elections on July 23. Currently led by President Evariste Ndayishimiye, who has been in power since 2020, the ruling CNDD-FDD party holds a significant majority in the National Assembly.
Malawi’s presidential and legislative elections are scheduled for September 16, 2025. President Lazarus Chakwera, seeking re-election, will contend with approximately 2.5 million eligible voters among the nation’s total population of 21.7 million.
Seychelles will also conduct presidential and legislative elections on September 27, with President Wavel Ramkalawan seeking another term. The nation has about 56,730 registered voters.
In Guinea, transitional President Mamadi Doumbouya has announced a return to constitutional order through a referendum late in 2025, indicating the forthcoming municipal, legislative, and presidential elections.
Cameroon is set to hold presidential elections in October, with President Paul Biya seeking another term amid competition from other political figures. The nation has a population of around 30 million and registered over 7.8 million voters in past elections.
Ivory Coast, also preparing for presidential elections in October, will see President Alassane Ouattara, who has been in power since 2010, potentially seeking a fourth term, with other prominent candidates emerging.
Tanzania is slated for elections in October, where President Samia Suluhu Hassan is expected to run for re-election, having assumed office in 2021. The nation has a substantial population of approximately 67 million.
Guinea-Bissau will host simultaneous presidential and legislative elections between October 23 and November 25, following recent parliamentary elections where the government retained control.
The Central African Republic will hold presidential elections in December, with uncertainty surrounding President Faustin-Archange Touadera’s intention to seek a third term after two previous terms since 2016.
Togo will conduct its first senatorial elections on February 15, transitioning to a parliamentary system, with new Senate members being elected and appointed.
Comoros has already commenced its electoral calendar for 2025, with legislative elections taking place on January 12, followed by reruns for annulled constituencies. President Azali Assoumani was re-elected in 2024 and will remain a critical figure as the legislative sessions continue.
The upcoming 2025 electoral landscape in Africa is significant, marking a critical period for political engagement and governance across various nations. Countries across the continent will hold elections that could potentially reshape their leadership and legislative structures. This year presents opportunities for voters to influence their government systems following recent political changes and situations, including military coups and transitions within nations.
In summary, twenty-five elections across numerous African nations in 2025 present vital opportunities for political participation. With varying degrees of leadership stability and changes occurring, citizens are expected to play a pivotal role in influencing the future of their governments and representation. The year will be closely observed as the outcomes may affect not only domestic policies but also regional dynamics across the continent.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
