Ivory Coast's Election: A Test of Democracy

Ivory Coast is gearing up for a significant vote this Saturday, as citizens head to the polls to elect their next leader.

Main Candidate: Alassane Ouattara

• Current President: Alassane Ouattara
• Years in Office: 15 years
• Seeking: Fourth term
• Age: 83 years old

Controversy Surrounding His Candidacy

• Constitutional Changes: Ouattara amended the constitution in 2016, allowing him to run again.
• Criticism: Opponents argue he is manipulating the system to extend his rule.
• Disqualified Opponents:
• Tidjane Thiam: Barred due to French citizenship.
• Laurent Gbagbo: Disqualified over past legal issues.

National Progress and Concerns

• Economic Growth: Significant progress over the past decade.
• Stability: Transition from civil war to relative peace.
• Freedom of Speech: Reports of crackdowns on dissent.
• Misinformation: False claims of coups and foreign influence circulating online.

Election Details

• Polling Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Results Timeline: Expected within a few days.
• Potential Second Round: If no candidate secures a majority.
• Public Sentiment: Many anticipate Ouattara's victory.