Côte d’Ivoire Prepares for Presidential Election Amid Controversy
On October 25, voters in Côte d’Ivoire will head to the polls in a presidential election that has sparked controversy and soul-searching. President Alassane Ouattara, 82, is seeking a third term, despite initial promises to step down. Ouattara’s decision to run again has been made possible by a constitutional court ruling that reset his term count.
Ouattara’s presidency has been marked by significant economic growth, with Côte d’Ivoire becoming one of West Africa’s fastest-growing economies. The country has seen major infrastructure projects, increased foreign investment, and a booming cocoa export industry. However, many Ivorians, particularly the 60% of the population under 25, feel that the benefits of growth have not been evenly distributed. Unemployment remains high, and rural areas continue to lack access to basic services such as healthcare and education.
The election has also been marked by geopolitical tensions, with Ouattara’s close ties to France and the US drawing criticism from neighboring countries. His opponents, including former First Lady Simone Gbagbo and businessman Jean-Louis Billon, have struggled to gain traction due to limited resources and media coverage.
Despite the controversy surrounding his candidacy, Ouattara is likely to win the election due to his incumbent advantage and the ruling party’s strong machinery. However, the question remains whether his victory will be seen as legitimate by the Ivorian people. As one street vendor noted, “He fixed the bridges, now fix our broken dreams.”
The election is not just a test of Ouattara’s popularity but also a referendum on the country’s progress and direction. With many Ivorians seeking generational change and greater economic opportunities, the outcome of the election will have significant implications for the country’s future. As Côte d’Ivoire prepares to go to the polls, the international community will be watching closely to see how the election unfolds and what it means for the country’s stability and development.
