Protests against 83-year-old President Alassane Ouattara have began in several cities of Côte d’Ivoire over his decision to seek a fourth term in the country’s upcoming presidential election scheduled for October 25.
Citizens of the country began protest after Ouattara confirmed his candidacy on Tuesday, citing constitutional provisions and his health status as grounds for running again.
He said his continued leadership is necessary to address ongoing security, economic, and monetary challenges facing the nation.
The announcement has sparked widespread criticism from opposition parties and civil society organizations, who argue that a fourth term violates the country’s constitution and undermines democratic governance.
Demonstrations were reported in Abidjan and other cities, where protesters denounced the president’s decision and burned effigies.
Tidjane Thiam, leader of the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI), described Ouattara’s move as a constitutional breach and a threat to democracy.
Thiam, along with former president Laurent Gbagbo, recently launched a joint campaign under a new opposition alliance aimed at contesting Ouattara’s candidacy and advocating for the reinstatement of disqualified opposition leaders.
Gbagbo, former ally Charles Blé Goudé, and ex-Prime Minister Guillaume Soro have all been barred from contesting due to past criminal convictions.
Their exclusion from the electoral roll has heightened tensions and raised concerns over the credibility of the electoral process.
The political climate remains tense, with memories still fresh from the deadly post-election violence in 2010.
Analysts have warned that growing political repression and public discontent could lead to renewed instability.
Ouattara’s decision mirrors a broader trend in the region, where aging leaders, including Cameroon’s 92-year-old President Paul Biya, have extended their time in office despite mounting opposition.
