Ivory Coast president, 83, says he will run for fourth term
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Ivory Coast’s 83-year-old president confirms fourth-term bid despite rising tensions
President Ouattara Declares Fourth-Term Run Amid Political Tensions in Ivory Coast
Omega TV UK – Abidjan, Ivory Coast
Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara has confirmed he will contest a fourth term in the upcoming October presidential election, despite growing concerns over democratic backsliding and political exclusion.
The 83-year-old leader addressed the nation on Tuesday, insisting that his health remains strong and that his decision stems from a desire to protect national unity during what he called a period of economic and security uncertainty.
Ouattara, who has ruled since 2011, argued that the 2016 adoption of a new constitution reset his term limit, legally allowing him to seek re-election.
Opposition Reacts as Key Candidates Blocked
Ouattara’s announcement comes as the electoral commission has disqualified several high-profile opposition figures, leaving him as the clear frontrunner. Among those barred from contesting are former President Laurent Gbagbo, ex-Prime Minister Guillaume Soro, and former minister Tidjane Thiam.
Thiam, speaking on behalf of opposition leaders, strongly criticised the president’s move, saying, “This decision by Mr. Ouattara violates our Constitution and strikes another blow against democracy.”
He added that Ivorians would not remain silent and would “continue to raise their voices to show the world their disapproval.”
Protest Ban Fuels Concerns
Authorities have also banned a planned peaceful protest scheduled for 7 August. Organised by opposition coalitions, the demonstration aimed to demand the reinstatement of barred candidates and push for an independent review of the voter register.
The government’s decision to suppress the protest has sparked alarm among civil society organisations and religious leaders, who warn that rising political polarisation could threaten peace in the lead-up to the election.
History of Unrest Casts a Shadow
Memories of past election-related violence continue to loom over Ivorian politics. The 2010–2011 post-election conflict left over 3,000 people dead, and Ouattara’s controversial third-term win in 2020 also triggered widespread unrest.
While the president hopes his economic record will secure him another term—citing four straight years of GDP growth above 6%—many Ivorians remain sceptical. Public frustration with the political elite is growing, particularly amid allegations of manipulation and lack of transparency in the electoral process.
More than 8.7 million people have registered to vote in October. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference and other influential groups have called for dialogue and restraint, urging political leaders to prioritise national interest over personal ambition.
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