Abidjan, Ivory Coast –
President Alassane Ouattara, aged 83, has been declared winner of the Ivory Coast presidential election, securing a fourth term in office and extending his rule beyond fourteen years.
The Electoral Commission announced on Monday, October 27, that Ouattara had won 89.7% of the vote, cementing his position as leader of the world’s top cocoa producer. His current term is set to end in late 2025, but questions are mounting over whether this will truly mark the end of his presidency.
Ouattara has described his next mandate as a period of “generational transition,” pledging to mentor younger figures within the ruling Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP). Critics, however, say that promise has worn thin, arguing that constitutional reforms in 2016—which reset term limits—were a calculated move to extend his rule.
Divided Opposition and Concentrated Power
The October 2025 vote was notable not only for Ouattara’s dominance but for who was barred from competing. Former president Laurent Gbagbo was excluded due to a criminal conviction, while former prime minister and technocrat Tidjane Thiam was disqualified on citizenship grounds. With major challengers sidelined, voter turnout hovered near 50%, echoing the 2020 elections.
Civil society organizations warn that political exclusion and narrowing democratic space could further alienate the youth, over two-thirds of whom are under 30.
Succession Tensions Within the RHDP
Behind Ouattara’s victory lies internal unease within the RHDP. Younger party members are reportedly pushing for renewal in a movement still dominated by Ouattara’s generation.
Local media have named Patrick Achi, former Prime Minister, and Téné Birahima Ouattara, the president’s younger brother and Defence Minister, as potential successors. However, no clear succession plan has been outlined, fueling speculation that this “final term” could again extend indefinitely.
The Paradox of Stability
Supporters credit Ouattara for revitalizing the post-war economy, achieving growth near 6% annually, and expanding infrastructure. Yet critics argue that this “stability” masks democratic stagnation. Many observers say Ivory Coast’s future depends on whether Ouattara will finally hand over power peacefully or continue to consolidate control.
As one young Ivorian commented online:
“He says it’s his last term. But we’ve heard that line before.”
