Ivory Coast dissolves election body criticised by the opposition

In a significant move aimed at restoring confidence in its electoral processes, Ivory Coast's government has decided to dissolve the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). This decision, announced after a cabinet meeting, comes in response to sustained criticism from opposition parties who have long questioned the CEI's impartiality and handling of past polls.

“

In view of the reservations expressed about this institution (the Independent Electoral Commission, or CEI), as well as the criticism it has faced, the Council of Ministers has decided to dissolve it.

Government spokesman Amadou Coulibaly stated that the dissolution was necessary "in view of the reservations expressed about this institution... as well as the criticism it has faced." He emphasized the government's goal: "to ensure, in a lasting way, the organization of peaceful elections by creating greater trust and reassuring all Ivorians and the political class." However, the specifics of a replacement mechanism remain to be determined, with discussions expected at the government level.

“

I cannot tell you at this stage what this new mechanism will be, which will certainly be discussed and put in place at the government level.

The opposition, including prominent figures like former Prime Minister Pascal Affi N’Guessan, has welcomed the dissolution but is urging for broader consultation. N’Guessan called for "a dialogue with political and civil society organisations to rebuild the electoral system, in the name of peace and stability." While the main opposition forces, the PDCI and the PPA-CI, have not yet commented, their previous exclusion from the last presidential election due to candidacy rejections and nationality issues highlights the deep-seated issues within the country's political landscape.

“

The aim... is to ensure, in a lasting way, the organization of peaceful elections by creating greater trust and reassuring all Ivorians and the political class.

This dissolution marks a critical juncture for Ivory Coast's democratic journey. The CEI has been a focal point of contention, tasked with organizing elections, enforcing electoral codes, and managing voter rolls. Its perceived lack of independence has fueled mistrust, particularly among opposition factions who felt their participation was unfairly curtailed. The path forward requires not just a new electoral body, but a genuine commitment to inclusive dialogue and reforms that solidify peace and stability in the nation.

“

The opposition has regularly and strongly denounced the lack of independence of the electoral commission, which is tasked with organising polls, ensuring the strict application of the electoral code and overseeing the electoral roll.