Mass Protests Erupt In Côte d’Ivoire As Opposition Leaders Barred from Election And President Ouattara Pushes For Fourth Term

Thousands of Ivorians took to the streets of Abidjan on Saturday to protest the exclusion of prominent opposition leaders from the upcoming presidential election. Demonstrators gathered in the Yopougon district, waving national flags and holding banners bearing slogans such as “Enough is enough!” and “No true democracy without true justice.”

The protests were sparked by the electoral commission’s decision to bar four prominent opposition figures, including former President Laurent Gbagbo and former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam, from running in the October 25 election.

The exclusion of these candidates has ignited widespread criticism and unrest. Thiam, leader of the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI), was disqualified due to his previous French citizenship, which violated a law prohibiting dual nationality for presidential candidates. Gbagbo, leader of the African People’s Party–Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI), was also barred, along with other opposition figures such as Charles Blé Goudé and Guillaume Soro. These disqualifications are politically motivated and undermine democratic processes.

President Alassane Ouattara, aged 83, announced his intention to seek a fourth term in office, citing national security and economic challenges as justifications. His decision has been met with accusations of authoritarianism, as it follows a 2016 constitutional amendment that removed presidential term limits. Opposition leaders and civil society groups argue that allowing Ouattara to extend his rule undermines democratic principles and sets a dangerous precedent in the country.

The protests in Abidjan reflect growing public discontent and fears of democratic backsliding. As the election approaches, tensions remain high, and the international community is closely monitoring developments in Côte d’Ivoire.

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