Ivorians are protesting against President Alassane Ouattara’s decision to seek a fourth term in the upcoming October 2025 presidential election. This move has sparked significant tension and demonstrations. Here’s a breakdown of the key information:
The Core Issue:
- Fourth Term Bid: President Alassane Ouattara, who is 83, announced his candidacy for a fourth term, citing the country’s need for experienced leadership to manage “unprecedented security, economic, and monetary challenges.”
- Constitutional Controversy: Critics argue that his bid is unconstitutional. While Côte d’Ivoire has a two-term limit, Ouattara’s supporters claim that a 2016 constitutional revision reset the clock on his terms, allowing him to run again. This is a point of major contention, as it has been a common strategy for leaders in the region to extend their time in office.
- Exclusion of Opposition Candidates: A significant source of the protests is the exclusion of key opposition figures from the ballot. Prominent opposition leaders, including former President Laurent Gbagbo and former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam, have been barred from running by the electoral commission. The opposition has formed a joint campaign to demand their reinstatement.
Thousands of Ivorians Take to Streets to Denounce Ouattara’s Bid for Fourth Term
