Côte d’Ivoire opposition calls daily protests ahead of presidential election

Côte d’Ivoire’s opposition parties have called for daily protests ahead of the presidential election scheduled for October 25. The two main opposition candidates, former leader Laurent Gbagbo and Tidjane Thiam, have been barred from running, and the government imposed sweeping bans on meetings and rallies earlier this month, citing the need to maintain public order.

On Saturday, security forces dispersed crowds with tear gas at a banned march in Abidjan, arresting at least 237 people. The opposition reported numerous injuries and reaffirmed its determination to continue demonstrations. The Common Front, a coalition of the two main opposition parties, announced that protests will continue daily until their demands for political dialogue are met. Although the authorities banned the opposition protest, several groups took to the streets, calling for democracy and opposing President Alassane Ouattara’s candidacy. Ouattara, 83, is seeking a fourth term, a move that has sparked tensions across the country.

Opposition leaders were not present at the march, but activists voiced frustration with the current regime. “Alassane Ouattara is not the choice of the Ivorians. We are not in a democracy; we are under a dictatorial regime,” one activist said. The government’s actions have been criticized by the opposition: Simon Doho, head of Thiam’s Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI) in parliament, described the arrests as “arbitrary” and a “serious risk to the stability of the country.” Sebastien Djedje, executive secretary of Gbagbo’s African People’s Party Côte d’Ivoire (PPA‑CI), said peace was being “imposed by weapons.”

In contrast, President Ouattara launched his re‑election campaign in the city of Daloa, addressing a crowd of cheering supporters. His campaign spokesperson urged people to “vote for stability, peace, and continuity.” Ouattara will face several candidates, including former ministers and a former first lady, in the upcoming election.

The opposition’s call for daily protests has raised concerns about the country’s stability ahead of the vote. The situation remains tense, with the opposition demanding political dialogue while the government maintains its ban on meetings and rallies. The international community will be watching developments in Côte d’Ivoire closely, as the nation prepares for a crucial election that could have significant implications for its future.