Thousands of demonstrators flooded the streets of Abidjan over the weekend to protest the exclusion of prominent opposition figures from Ivory Coast’s October presidential election. The march, centred in the capital’s Yo-po-ugon district, drew supporters carrying placards calling for justice, democracy, and the reinstatement of barred candidates.
The protests follow a decision by the country’s electoral commission to disqualify four major opposition contenders, including former President Laurent Gbagbo and Chief Tidjane Thiam, who had earlier formed an alliance to challenge President Alassane Ouattara. Critics say the move undermines the credibility of the upcoming vote.
President Ouattara, now 83, has announced plans to seek a fourth term, a decision that remains contentious after constitutional changes in 2016 removed term limits. Demonstrators also called for a revised electoral roll and a peaceful, inclusive election process.
