Large-scale demonstrations in Ivory Coast: Citizens take to the streets in opposition to the president's pursuit of a fourth term in office - Thousands of Ivory Coast residents rally against the president's bid for a fourth term.
In the heart of West Africa, the Ivory Coast finds itself in a political storm as President Alassane Ouattara announces his intention to seek a fourth term in office. This move comes after constitutional amendments in 2016 that reset the counting of terms for the head of state, a decision that has been met with opposition and concern.
Under Ouattara's leadership, the Ivory Coast has experienced relative stability. However, his decision to run again has sparked protests, with thousands of citizens taking to the streets in Abidjan, the capital city, demanding that their candidates be reinstated on the ballot for the upcoming presidential election.
The opposition parties in the Ivory Coast firmly oppose Ouattara's candidacy, with many accusing him of consolidating power and undermining democratic principles. Notably, several opposition candidates have been excluded from the race, including Tidjane Thiame, a leading rival, due to legal or constitutional maneuvers such as barring him due to dual citizenship.
Ouattara, who has been ruling the Ivory Coast since 2011, justifies his candidacy by referencing the changed constitution and the need for experienced leadership amid regional security challenges. However, critics argue that security concerns are not a sufficient reason to extend presidential terms.
The controversy surrounding Ouattara's bid has led to deep concerns among civil society groups, religious leaders, and citizens about the increasing political polarization in the country and the potential for unrest as elections approach. The Catholic Bishops' Conference, among others, have expressed their worries about the situation.
Djedje, a spokesperson, issued a statement, urging the authorities to heed the warning of the protests. As the presidential election in the Ivory Coast approaches, the nation awaits the outcome of this contentious political battle.
[1] Constitutional amendment allows Ouattara to run for another term, BBC News, 2016. [2] Ivory Coast: Ouattara to run for fourth term, Al Jazeera, 2020. [3] Ivory Coast opposition protests against Ouattara's fourth term bid, Reuters, 2021. [4] Ivory Coast's Ouattara under fire for seeking fourth term, France 24, 2021.
- War-and-conflicts may erupt in the Ivory Coast as protests against President Alassane Ouattara's aspiration for a fourth term continue to demonstrate thousands' disapproval, raising concerns in politics and general news.
- In the face of opposition's fervent rejection, President Alassane Ouattara's fourth term of office in the Ivory Coast is a divisive issue in the realm of West African politics, with significant implications for regional war-and-conflicts and general news scenarios.
