On October 25, voters in Côte d’Ivoire will head to the polls for a presidential election that has sparked controversy and soul‑searching. President Alassane Ouattara, 82, is seeking a third term despite earlier promises to step down. His decision to run again was made possible by a constitutional‑court ruling that reset his term count.
Ouattara’s presidency has been marked by significant economic growth, turning Côte d’Ivoire into one of West Africa’s fastest‑growing economies. The country has benefited from major infrastructure projects, increased foreign investment, and a booming cocoa export industry. Yet many Ivorians—especially the 60 % of the population under 25—feel that the benefits of growth have not been evenly distributed. Unemployment remains high, and rural areas still lack basic services such as healthcare and education.
The election is also framed by geopolitical tensions. Ouattara’s close ties to France and the United States have drawn 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 because of his incumbent advantage and the ruling party’s strong machinery. However, questions remain about the legitimacy of his victory in the eyes of the Ivorian people. As one street vendor put it, “He fixed the bridges, now fix our broken dreams.”
The election is not merely a test of Ouattara’s popularity; it is a referendum on the country’s progress and direction. With many Ivorians seeking generational change and greater economic opportunities, the outcome will have significant implications for Côte d’Ivoire’s future. As the nation prepares to vote, the international community will be watching closely to see how the election unfolds and what it means for the country’s stability and development.
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