Côte d’Ivoire Election: Fourth Term Bid Sparks Political Storm
Abidjan |Kampala
In Côte d’Ivoire, President Alassane Ouattara is seeking a controversial fourth term in office in the October 25, 2025 election, amid widespread criticism that the democratic process is being hollowed out.
Election Context
Ouattara, who first took office in 2011, has overseen a period of infrastructure investment and economic growth, but is now facing unprecedented public disquiet. Opposition figures and civil-society groups say his decision to run again — after already changing the constitution to enable it — signals a shift toward indefinite incumbency.
Political Tensions & Repression
The lead-up to the vote has been marked by tight security, bans on political gatherings and exclusion of key opposition contenders. More than 700 arrests of protestors have been reported, while major opposition players were disqualified from the race.
Analysts warn that the electoral process is increasingly becoming a rubber-stamp for the ruling party rather than a genuine choice for citizens.
What It Means for Côte d’Ivoire & Region
A heavily tilted playing field may undermine Ivorian democratic credibility and affect investor confidence.
The continent-wide trend of third/fourth term bids by incumbents raises questions about governance, accountability and youth disillusionment.
For Uganda’s readers: the Ivorian case offers a cautionary tale about how institutional drift can happen even amidst economic growth.
What to Watch
Official election results and whether opposition parties will accept them or contest them.
Post-election stability: will there be protests, suppression or an enforced calm?
International reaction: observers, donor-countries and Af-Union responses to the process.
