Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye on Friday became the first candidate to submit his application for the country’s May 3, 2027, presidential election, as the official nomination period opened.

Ndayishimiye, the candidate of the ruling CNDD-FDD party, submitted his application to the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) on November 13.

The submission period runs through November 22, 2026, giving other prospective candidates until that date to file their applications.

Under the requirements, presidential candidates must submit identification documents, photographs, a medical fitness certificate and a deposit of 100 million Burundian francs.

Each application must also include endorsements from 200 Burundian citizens representing different ethnic groups, genders and regions of the country. The supporters are not required to be members of the candidate’s political party.

Other announced presidential contenders include Gabriel Banzawitonde of APDR, Abel Gashatsi of UPRONA, Francis Rohero of FPI, Gaspard Kobako of AND Intadohoka and Valentin Kavakure of FPN Imboneza.

The presidential election is scheduled for May 3, 2027. The electoral commission will be responsible for reviewing the submitted applications and determining which candidates meet the requirements to contest the election.