President Alassane Ouattara is widely expected to secure a fourth term in Côte d’Ivoire’s October 25 election in a race that is largely devoid of suspense. The electoral commission’s exclusion of major opposition figures, including former President Laurent Gbagbo and former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam, leaves Ouattara virtually unchallenged. While smaller opposition candidates remain in the race, they lack the political weight to mount a serious challenge. For many investors and businesses, this predictable outcome is welcome, as it ensures the continuation of the pro-business policies that have fueled impressive economic growth over the past decade. While some protests are expected, analysts anticipate limited unrest compared to past elections. Still, repeated managed polls risk undermining Ouattara’s legitimacy and highlight looming succession challenges within his party, the RHDP, as the country considers leadership beyond his fourth term.
African Business
