Ivorians will today vote in a tense election as 83-year-old President Alassane Ouattara seeks a fourth term, a move that could extend his rule to almost two decades.
Ouattara, a former deputy managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), says it will be his final presidential contest.
He took power in 2011 after a four-month civil war triggered by former President Laurent Gbagbo’s refusal to acknowledge defeat to Ouattara.
The war was the second tumultuous conflict that marked Gbagbo’s tenure.
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The build-up to Saturday’s election has been marred by protests against the exclusion of major candidates, including Gbagbo, who could pose a challenge to Ouattara’s ambition.
Simone, Gbagbo’s ex-wife, and Jean-Loius Billion, the president’s former commerce minister, are the main contenders.
Gbagbo had filed for divorce in 2021, ending a partnership that stretched back to their days as young opposition activists.
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A year later, Simone launched the Movement of Skilled Generations, her current party, which she has described as rooted in social democratic principles.
Simone, 76, was once declared wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes against humanity.
The former first lady is known in the West African nation as the “Iron Lady” and is the most high-profile name among those who were allowed to run against the president.
Despite years of steady economic growth, frustration simmers among young Ivorians who say the gains have not translated into jobs or political inclusion.
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Many have taken to the streets to protest what they describe as government repression of opposition voices.
Critics say the system continues to favour ageing political elites, leaving few pathways for new leaders to emerge.
