Thousands of people marched in Abidjan, Ivory Coast’s largest city, protesting against 83-year-old President Alassane Ouattara's attempt to secure a fourth term in office. Ouattara, who has been president since 2010, announced his bid for re-election following a 2016 constitutional change that removed presidential term limits, allowing him to run again despite previous limits.
The protests were also fueled by the exclusion of prominent opposition leaders from the upcoming October 2025 presidential election. Key opposition figures like former President Laurent Gbagbo and former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam were barred from running, intensifying political tensions. Protesters, particularly in the densely populated suburb of Yopougon, carried banners demanding fair elections, including calls for the inclusion of all candidates and revision of the electoral roll to ensure transparency and peace during the polls.
The protests reflect widespread opposition to Ouattara's extended presidency and concerns over democracy in Ivory Coast amid a fraught electoral environment. No immediate official response was reported from Ivorian authorities regarding the protests.
This situation exemplifies the ongoing challenges in West African politics where leaders extend their rule by constitutional changes, often sparking civil unrest and regional tensions.