Thousands of people across Ivory Coast have taken to the streets to protest President Alassane Ouattara’s reported plan to run for a fourth term in the upcoming October election. The anger grew after the electoral commission blocked four major opposition figures, including ex-president Laurent Gbagbo and former Credit Suisse boss Tidjane Thiam, from contesting.
In Abidjan’s Yopougon area, protesters carried signs reading “Enough is enough!” and “No true democracy without true justice.” Many voiced strong support for Gbagbo and Thiam, who have recently joined forces to challenge Ouattara. The 83-year-old president removed term limits in 2016, sparking criticism that he is clinging to power. Activist Sagesse Divine called for a fair voter list and the inclusion of all candidates.
Ouattara insists his leadership is needed due to what he describes as “unprecedented security, economic, and monetary challenges.” So far, the government has not commented on the protests, but the public’s message is loud and clear—they want change and peaceful elections.
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