Former President Laurent Gbagbo has publicly voiced his opposition to a potential fourth presidential term for incumbent Alassane Ouattara, intensifying political tensions ahead of Côte d’Ivoire’s next election cycle.
Speaking at a rally on Saturday in Abidjan’s Yopougon district, Gbagbo addressed supporters of his party, the African People’s Party – Côte d’Ivoire (PPACI), asserting that the country should not entertain another mandate for Ouattara.
“Go and tell him there’s no fourth-term candidacy for President Alassane Ouattara,” Gbagbo said. “The third term was illegal—don’t dream about another.”
Gbagbo also criticized the exclusion of several prominent figures from the national electoral list, including himself, former Prime Minister Guillaume Soro, and economist Tidjane Thiam.
He questioned the legal basis for their disqualification, suggesting political interference.
“Who removed us from the list?” he asked. “We want answers.”
The former president further called for the release of detained PPACI members, describing their imprisonment as politically motivated.
“We demand the freedom of our militants who have been incarcerated,” he said.
Gbagbo’s remarks underscore growing opposition resistance to Ouattara’s continued leadership.
While Ouattara has not officially announced his candidacy, speculation around a fourth term has sparked debate over constitutional limits and democratic governance.
The Ivorian political landscape remains deeply polarized, with critics accusing the current administration of consolidating power and marginalizing dissenting voices. Gbagbo’s declaration signals a renewed push by opposition forces to challenge the status quo.
