Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – After a period of mounting speculation, President Alassane Ouattara announced his candidacy for a fourth term in a televised address on July 29, 2025. The declaration, broadcast nationally, confirmed weeks of anticipation following signals from within his ruling Rally of the Republicans (RDR) party regarding a potential bid for re-election.
The announcement followed a period of political maneuvering and debate surrounding the constitutional limits of presidential terms in Côte d’Ivoire. Ouattara had previously indicated he would not seek another term, but a constitutional change in 2016 reset the term limit clock, allowing him to run again. This decision has been met with criticism from opposition leaders, who have accused him of circumventing democratic principles.
According to reports from RFI, the ruling party had already increased its majority in parliamentary elections held on December 30, 2025, potentially bolstering Ouattara’s position ahead of the presidential vote. The parliamentary results preceded a period of heightened political tension, with the opposition calling for daily protests in October 2025 after key leaders were barred from participating in the election. The government responded by banning protests, citing concerns about public order.
The 2025 election campaign was marked by concerns over potential disruptions, with reports indicating that Sahelian juntas were attempting to interfere with the polls through online campaigns. Prior to the election, press freedom organizations urged the Ivorian government to protect journalists, highlighting the importance of a free press during the electoral process. Early results in October 2025 suggested a strong showing for Ouattara, with a landslide victory ultimately confirmed later that month.
The decision to seek a fourth term has sparked debate about the future of political succession in Côte d’Ivoire. RFI reported in November 2025 that questions were looming regarding the succession plan, despite Ouattara’s re-election. Young voters, according to reports from October 2025, have expressed a desire for change and job opportunities, alongside a fundamental need for peace and stability. Ouattara addressed youth concerns in a statement on October 21, 2025, but the underlying issues remain a significant factor in the political landscape.
The President’s declaration on July 29th was followed by further statements, including one available on the Presidency’s Facebook page, but no further details regarding specific campaign platforms or policy initiatives have been released as of March 15, 2026. The Ivorian government has not yet announced a timeline for the next steps in the electoral process.
