Ivory Coast’s Ouattara Seeks Fourth Term Amid Economic Boom
Alassane Ouattara, the current President of Ivory Coast, is set to seek a fourth term in the upcoming elections on October 25, 2023. With his presidency marked by significant economic growth and infrastructure development, Ouattara’s campaign faces scrutiny over democratic practices. The 83-year-old leader’s journey to power has been fraught with challenges, including disqualifications from past elections and a civil war.
Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development
Since taking office in 2011, Ouattara has overseen a period of robust economic expansion for Ivory Coast, the largest cocoa producer in West Africa. Supporters attribute his electoral success to:
- Strong economic growth
- Extensive infrastructure projects
- Improved public facilities, including new roads and a prominent city tower
However, critics argue that the political landscape is manipulated to ensure his continued success. Recent actions have included restrictions on democratic activities, notably a ban on election-related protests criticized by Amnesty International.
Exclusion of Key Opponents
Challenges to Ouattara’s presidency are limited. His main potential rival, Tidjane Thiam, the former CEO of Credit Suisse, was disqualified due to his French nationality. Additionally, Laurent Gbagbo, Ouattara’s predecessor, remains barred from running due to a prior conviction.
The current opposition candidates face significant hurdles. They struggle to unite as major political parties do not support them, resulting in fragmented coalitions lacking substantial mobilization capabilities.
Ouattara’s Turbulent Political Path
Born on January 1, 1942, in Dimbokro, Ouattara’s education includes a doctorate in economics from the University of Pennsylvania. He rose to international prominence as deputy director of the International Monetary Fund and later served as Prime Minister. His political career has been marred by challenges, including notable exclusions from elections due to changing electoral laws.
Ouattara became president after a tumultuous civil war that resulted in around 3,000 deaths following the disputed 2010 election. His subsequent re-elections in 2015 and 2020 were clouded by political violence, notably in 2020, when clashes resulted in 85 fatalities.
Future Prospects and Legacy
As he campaigns for a fourth term, Ouattara’s focus remains on enhancing Ivory Coast’s economy, including a plan to achieve middle-income status by 2030 and advancing transport infrastructure. While tensions are lower than in previous years, the political landscape remains uncertain, particularly concerning his potential successor.
Ouattara once suggested that former Prime Minister Amadou Gon Coulibaly would succeed him, but following Coulibaly’s untimely death, the process of selecting a new leader has become complicated. With Ouattara approaching 88 by the next election, the question of leadership transition looms large over the country’s political future.
