President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire is expected to formally submit his candidacy for a fourth presidential term on Tuesday, August 26, at 11:00 AM local time, according to officials from the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI).
The move has sparked renewed political tensions and drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, who argue that the bid violates constitutional term limits.
Ouattara, 83, has governed the West African nation since 2011. His announcement, made during a televised address on July 29, has reignited debate over the legality of his continued leadership. Critics point to the Ivorian constitution’s two-term limit, while supporters argue that a 2016 constitutional revision effectively reset the term count, allowing him to run again.
The president’s party, the Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP), confirmed the candidacy and announced press restrictions for Tuesday’s event. Liberia Public Radio’s West Africa correspondent in Abidjan quoted a statement issued on August 24, saying that only accredited journalists will be allowed past police security lines, and access to the official reception room will be limited to cameramen.
Ouattara’s decision mirrors his controversial 2020 re-election, when he reversed an earlier pledge not to seek a third term following the sudden death of his designated successor, Prime Minister Amadou Gon Coulibaly. At the time, the move triggered widespread unrest and allegations of democratic backsliding.
In his latest justification, Ouattara cited “unprecedented security, economic, and monetary challenges” facing the country, asserting that his leadership is essential to navigate the crisis.
Political tension
The political climate ahead of the October 25 election has been further strained by the exclusion of key opposition figures. Former President Laurent Gbagbo was barred due to a prior criminal conviction, while Tidjane Thiam, a former Credit Suisse CEO and leader of the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI), was disqualified over dual citizenship issues.
Opposition groups have condemned the exclusions as politically motivated and warned of potential unrest reminiscent of the violence that followed the 2020 vote.
Human rights observers and international stakeholders are closely monitoring developments amid concerns over democratic integrity and electoral transparency in the west African nation.
