Ivorians went to the polls on Saturday in a tense presidential election, with 83-year-old incumbent President Alassane Ouattara widely expected to secure a fourth term despite growing opposition unrest and the disqualification of key rivals.
Ouattara, who has led the world’s top cocoa producer since 2011, faces four challengers but remains the overwhelming favourite after former president Laurent Gbagbo and ex-Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam were barred from contesting. Nearly nine million citizens are eligible to vote, with polling stations set to close at 6:00 pm local time.
In the run-up to the election, protests called by opposition groups turned violent, leaving at least four people dead and prompting the government to impose night-time curfews in some regions. Authorities also deployed 44,000 security personnel nationwide to maintain order and prevent a repeat of the deadly clashes that marred the 2020 polls.
“We are voting today in peace. Our hope is for the day to pass without incident,” said voter Severine Kouakou in Bouake, the country’s second-largest city.
Ouattara’s rivals include former trade minister Jean-Louis Billon, former first lady Simone Ehivet Gbagbo, engineer Ahoua Don Mello, and centrist Henriette Lagou — none of whom are considered serious threats to the ruling RHDP’s dominance.
The election follows weeks of tension, with rallies banned and dozens jailed for “disturbing the peace.” Independent and regional observers from ECOWAS and the African Union are monitoring the process, and results are expected early next week.
Ouattara’s government points to years of economic growth and stability under his leadership, but critics argue that wealth inequality and rising living costs remain pressing issues.
Despite fears of violence, electoral officials expressed optimism. “The election is frightening, but we believe there will be more fear than harm,” said Ibrahime Kuibiert Coulibaly, head of the Independent Electoral Commission.
