Overview of African Nations Preparing for Elections in 2025

In 2025, numerous African nations are set to hold critical elections, including nine presidential contests, seven legislative elections, and others. Key nations like Gabon, Burundi, Malawi, Seychelles, and Guinea will face pivotal elections, fundamentally shaping their political landscape and potential futures.

In 2025, multiple African nations are preparing for pivotal electoral events, encompassing presidential, legislative, senatorial, municipal elections, and referendums. Notably, at least nine presidential elections will take place across the continent, along with seven legislative, two senatorial, two municipal elections, and two referendums. This series of elections is expected to significantly influence the political landscape of the respective countries involved.

Gabon will conduct its presidential elections on April 12, 2025, following last year’s constitutional referendum that emerged after a military coup ousting President Ali Bongo. General Brice Oligui Nguema, the transitional president, is anticipated to be a key candidate in the elections.

Burundi is set to hold legislative elections on June 5, 2025, followed by senatorial elections on July 23. The current ruling party, CNDD-FDD, maintains a majority and has been in power under President Evariste Ndayishimiye since 2020.

Malawi’s presidential and legislative elections will occur on September 16, with President Lazarus Chakwera, in office since 2020, seeking reelection. Approximately 2.5 million of 21.7 million citizens are projected to be eligible voters in these elections, which will include 193 seats in the National Assembly.

On September 27, Seychelles will conduct both presidential and legislative elections, with President Wavel Ramkalawan aiming for another term. The ruling party Linyon Demokratik Seselwa controls the National Assembly, which has 35 seats.

Guinea’s transitional president, Mamadi Doumbouya, announced a return to a constitutional order via a referendum and elections in late 2025. He stated plans for a new consensual constitution, beginning with municipal elections and culminating in presidential elections.

Cameroon’s presidential elections are scheduled for October, with long-standing President Paul Biya announcing his candidacy. Alongside him, ten other political figures have also declared their intention to run for the presidency.

In October, Ivory Coast will also hold presidential elections under the rule of President Alassane Ouattara, who has been in office since 2010. Potential challengers include former Prime Minister Pascal Affi N’Guessan and business mogul Tidjane Thiam.

Tanzania will elect a new president in October, with current President Samia Suluhu Hassan likely to seek reelection. She has served since March 2021 due to the previous president’s demise.

Guinea-Bissau plans to hold simultaneous presidential and legislative elections sometime between October 23 and November 25. Under President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s leadership since 2020, the National Assembly saw elections in 2023.

The Central African Republic will conduct its presidential elections in December, with incumbent President Faustin-Archange Touadera possibly seeking a third term. Currently, the political situation remains unclear.

Togo will hold its inaugural senatorial elections on February 15, 2025, which was instituted following the transition to a parliamentary system. The ruling party, UNIR, held a dominant position in previous elections.

Comoros already commenced its electoral process in 2025, having held its legislative elections on January 12. The ruling CRC party secured 29 out of 33 parliamentary seats during the initial voting round.

In recent years, Africa has experienced a surge in democratic elections, reflecting the desire for political change and stability across the continent. The year 2025 is particularly significant as it marks a myriad of crucial elections, including high-profile presidential races and legislative contests. These elections are essential for shaping governance and addressing various socio-economic challenges facing each nation.

The upcoming elections across various African nations in 2025 will play a pivotal role in determining their political futures. With numerous presidential, legislative, and referendums scheduled, the continent is poised for significant political reconfiguration. As countries navigate through the electoral processes, the outcomes will likely have profound impacts on governance and policy directions.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr