Three months ahead of Ivory Coast’s presidential election,President Alassane Ouattara has confirmed he will seek a controversial fourth term,a move reigniting political unrest and drawing criticism from opposition leaders and civil society groups.
In a televised address,the 83-year-old leader said his decision was driven by a desire to safeguard the country’s stability amid mounting security and economic threats. “I want our beloved Côte d’Ivoire to continue to remain a prosperous country,in peace and security,” he stated. Ouattara,in power since 2011,previously reset term limits through a 2016 constitutional change,allowing him to run in 2020. Though he had signaled an intention to step down,the sudden death of his chosen successor prompted him to run again — sparking deadly protests.
His Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP) party has repeatedly lauded him as a stabilizing force,but opposition groups view his continued rule as a power grab. Prominent rivals,including former President Laurent Gbagbo and ex-banker Tidjane Thiam,have been barred from running — allegedly on legal grounds that critics say are politically motivated. Now,a united opposition front is demanding the reinstatement of excluded candidates. As the 25 October vote approaches,fears of renewed violence loom,echoing past elections marred by unrest. With candidacies closing in August,Ivory Coast stands at a critical political crossroads.
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