The section dedicated to the President of the Republic in the draft Constitution differs on several levels from the provisions in the current Constitution on the same matter. Below are highlights of certain articles from that section. Article 120-2 maintains the presidential term at five years. However, it specifies that the “President is only eligible for re-election once. The President of the Republic cannot benefit from any extension of their mandate. Under no circumstances may they seek a third term.” For the first time since 1987, a president could remain in power for ten consecutive years if re-elected.

According to Article 120-3 of the document, the presidential election takes place on the last Sunday of September in the fifth year of the president’s term. The elected president takes office on the following February 7.