In a politically charged decision, Côte d’Ivoire’s judiciary has disqualified prominent opposition leader Tidjane Thiam from running in the upcoming presidential election scheduled for October 25, 2025.
Legal Controversy
The court in Abidjan ruled that Thiam lost his Ivorian nationality when he acquired French citizenship in 1987. Despite renouncing his French nationality in March 2025, the court maintained that Ivorian nationality is lost automatically upon obtaining a foreign citizenship, as per national law.
Underwhelming Public Response
In reaction, Thiam’s Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI) called for nationwide protests. However, turnout was modest, with only a few hundred demonstrators gathering in Abidjan and Bouaké—raising doubts about Thiam’s current grassroots influence.
“It’s me or no one”
Thiam announced he will not endorse a replacement candidate, declaring: “It’s me or no one.” He plans to appeal the case before the ECOWAS Court of Justice and has vowed to continue his political fight on the ground.
Democratic Implications
Observers warn that Thiam’s exclusion may undermine the credibility of the electoral process and deepen political divisions, at a time when the country needs unity and democratic reassurance.
