Côte d’Ivoire’s political scene is heating up ahead of October’s presidential elections, with an unexpected meeting between the ruling coalition and opposition figure Simone Gbagbo, the former first lady, signaling major realignments. Experts suspect President Ouattara’s silence on a fourth-term bid has fueled uncertainty, leaving political and business players scrambling to fill a potential power vacuum. The disqualification of leading candidate Tidjane Thiam also contributed to the uncertainty, fueling shifting alliances. Business leaders warn that uncertainty is stalling investments, while internal divisions grow within Ouattara’s own party. As former rivals reunite and new coalitions emerge, Côte d’Ivoire stands at a crossroads, teetering between reform and renewed instability.
SEMAFOR
