Ivory Coast Court Blocks Thiam’s Presidential Bid Over French Nationality

An Ivory Coast court has ordered that opposition leader Tidjane Thiam be removed from the country’s electoral roll, citing his French nationality when he initially registered. This decision, which is final and cannot be appealed, could effectively end Thiam’s presidential ambitions, with elections scheduled for October. Thiam, who renounced his French citizenship in February to meet Ivory Coast’s eligibility requirements, has criticized the ruling, claiming it is politically motivated and an attempt to silence opposition. According to him, the decision is an act of democratic vandalism that will disenfranchise millions of voters. Thiam called on the country’s political leaders to engage in dialogue to break the deadlock and ensure free and fair elections.

Reuters