A call for protests by Ivory Coast’s primary opposition party, the PDCI, saw minimal turnout on Thursday, following the exclusion of their candidate, Tidjane Thiam, from the upcoming presidential election.
The Abidjan court’s decision, citing Thiam’s dual citizenship, has sparked significant political tension.
Despite the PDCI’s call for nationwide demonstrations, only approximately 200 supporters gathered at the party’s Abidjan headquarters, and the planned march to the courthouse did not materialize.
Reports indicate no significant protests occurred in other parts of the country.
The government, emphasizing its stance against unrest, deployed police to block access to key courthouses in Abidjan and Bouake.
Government spokesman Amadou Coulibaly issued a warning against disorder.
The PDCI’s parliamentary leader, Simon Doho, criticized the government’s actions, alleging an “anti-democratic situation.”
Tensions have been escalating in Ivory Coast, particularly after the exclusion of other prominent opposition figures, including former president Laurent Gbagbo.
Thiam, currently in France, has declared he will not be replaced as the PDCI candidate and intends to pursue legal action through the ECOWAS court.
Political analysts suggest the low turnout reflects internal party doubts and uncertainties.
Ivory Coast, known for its past electoral violence, faces a potentially volatile period leading up to the October 25th election.
