Côte d’Ivoire’s presidential election held on October 25, 2025, unfolded in a notably “calm and serene” atmosphere, marking a significant milestone in the country’s democratic consolidation, according to a preliminary statement released Sunday by the joint ADC-ROEF Electoral Observation Mission.
The mission—comprising Africa Development Consulting (ADC) and the Network of French-Speaking Electoral Observers (ROEF)—deployed 15 experts across major urban centers, including Abidjan, Yamoussoukro, and Grand-Bassam. Collectively, they monitored over 380 polling stations serving approximately 190,000 registered voters.
Smooth Voting Amid Technical Challenges
Observers commended the peaceful conduct of the election, noting the absence of “major incidents or significant disruptions.” They emphasized that core voting procedures were “generally respected,” reflecting a commendable level of organizational competence by the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI).
The report highlighted operational issues at polling stations, including delayed openings due to technical malfunctions and late voter card distribution. The CEI swiftly resolved these issues, but voter participation varied across regions, raising concerns about civic engagement and regional disparities. The absence of political party representatives in some polling stations also raised transparency risks, potentially undermining public trust.
Post-Vote Procedures and Recommendations
While vote counting was conducted publicly and transparently, observers noted confusion regarding vote tallying methods and the classification of null versus blank ballots—highlighting a need for enhanced technical training.
In response, the mission issued a series of targeted recommendations: The CEI should enhance electoral staff training, improve logistical coordination, and intensify civic education campaigns to increase voter participation. Political parties should ensure consistent representation and peaceful political engagement at polling stations. Civil society should expand electoral education initiatives and coordinate observer deployments.
Commitment to Democratic Progress
The ADC-ROEF mission expressed appreciation to Ivorian authorities and fellow international observers from ECOWAS, the African Union (AU), and the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting a “peaceful, inclusive, and transparent democracy” in Côte d’Ivoire.
