Cote d’Ivoire’s President, Alassane Ouattara, has secured a fourth consecutive term in office after a widely controversial election that saw him win 90% of the total votes cast. The 83-year-old leader, who first assumed office in 2011, faced little to no opposition as all four major opposition candidates were barred from contesting, and public protests were prohibited nationwide during the electoral process.
The election comes after a constitutional amendment that removed presidential term limits, paving the way for Ouattara’s continued rule. Critics and international observers have described the development as a setback for democratic governance in the West African nation, citing concerns over political freedom, human rights, and fair representation.
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Interestingly, President Ouattara, once a victim of political oppression under the former ruling party, now finds himself at the center of similar accusations, as opposition voices claim suppression and intimidation.
Despite the controversy, Ouattara has promised to maintain national stability and economic growth, asserting that his continued leadership is in the best interest of Ivorians. However, the international community and local activists have called for electoral reforms and dialogue between political factions to preserve the country’s democratic integrity.