Ivorian Opposition Unites to Demand Electoral Reform Ahead of 2025 Elections

Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – As Côte d’Ivoire approaches its pivotal October 2025 presidential election, opposition parties have set aside their differences to form a united front against President Alassane Ouattara’s ruling camp. Their primary demand: comprehensive electoral reform to ensure a transparent, fair, and democratic process.

A Rare Display of Unity

For years, Côte d’Ivoire’s opposition has been fragmented, with ideological differences and past rivalries preventing effective coordination. However, faced with what they see as an electoral system skewed in favor of the ruling party, opposition leaders have come together in an unprecedented show of solidarity. This coalition includes major political figures and grassroots movements determined to push for key changes before the country heads to the polls.

“We cannot go into the next election under the same conditions as before,” said an opposition spokesperson. “The current system does not inspire confidence in the people, and we must fight to ensure that every vote counts.”

Key Electoral Reform Demands

The opposition has outlined several urgent reforms, including:

An Independent Electoral Commission: Critics argue that the current commission lacks neutrality, with close ties to the ruling party. A truly independent body is seen as crucial for credibility.

A Transparent Voter Registration Process: Ensuring that all eligible Ivorian citizens, both at home and abroad, can register and vote without obstacles.

Equal Media Access: Opposition parties demand fairer access to state-controlled media, which they claim has been used to disproportionately promote the ruling party.

Revised Security Arrangements: To prevent voter intimidation and violence, opposition leaders insist on an impartial security presence at polling stations.


Mounting Pressure on the Government

The opposition has already organized mass demonstrations, drawing thousands of supporters into the streets of Abidjan and other cities. Civil society groups, religious leaders, and international observers are also closely monitoring the situation, with some calling for dialogue between the government and opposition forces.

Despite growing pressure, the government has so far resisted significant changes, arguing that the existing electoral framework is sufficient. However, with continued protests and an increasingly vocal opposition, the ruling party may be forced to negotiate some level of reform.

A Test for Côte d’Ivoire’s Democracy

The 2025 election will be a crucial test for Côte d’Ivoire’s democracy. Memories of past political crises—including the deadly violence following the 2010 election—loom large in the minds of many Ivorians. Ensuring a credible electoral process is seen as vital to maintaining stability and avoiding a repeat of past turmoil.

With opposition forces more unified than ever, the coming months are expected to be a period of intense political struggle. Whether the government will yield to reform demands remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Côte d’Ivoire is heading toward a high-stakes electoral showdown that will shape its political future.

In a historic move, 25 opposition parties in Ivory Coast have formed the Coalition for a Peaceful Alternation (CPA) to challenge President Alassane Ouattara in the 2025 election. This alliance, which includes major players like the PDCI and MGC, is pushing for electoral reforms, an independent electoral commission, and equal access to state media. 

The coalition’s formation marks a significant shift in Ivorian politics, as opposition groups have historically been fragmented. However, challenges like internal cohesion and candidate selection could test its unity. With Ouattara potentially seeking a controversial fourth term, the CPA’s success could reshape the nation’s political future.