The news today tells us of the death of Henri Konan Bédié, former head of state of Côte d’Ivoire, at the age of 89. This news marks the loss of a heavyweight on the Ivorian political scene, who still retained great influence, particularly at the head of his party, the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI). To better understand the legacy he leaves behind and its impact on Ivorian politics, we interviewed Sylvain N’Guessan, political analyst and director of the Abidjan Institute of Strategy.
According to Sylvain N’Guessan, Henri Konan Bédié leaves behind a strong PDCI, in full preparation for the local elections. However, no party cadre has so far managed to make a name for itself on the national political scene. It therefore remains to be seen who will be Bédié’s successor and whether he will succeed in imposing himself against the other political parties.
Henri Konan Bédié was until recently a key figure in Ivorian politics, being part of the “big three” with Alassane Ouattara and Laurent Gbagbo. He had established himself as a major player in the Ivorian political landscape, with a loyal electorate.
However, Bédié’s political career was marked by the debate around Ivoirité, which deeply divided the country. This concept, which aimed to define the criteria for belonging to the Ivorian nationality, was used in a political way and led to ethnic tensions and exclusions. According to N’Guessan, Bédié used this concept for political purposes, even though he claimed that it was simply an Ivorian cultural preference. This debate had important consequences on the history of Côte d’Ivoire, in particular by limiting eligibility for the presidency of the Republic and by provoking conflicts and deep divisions.
Despite his political influence, Bédié failed to return to power until the end of his life. According to N’Guessan, he believed for a time that he could be the candidate of the Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP) after the mandate of Alassane Ouattara. However, he failed to garner the necessary support and had to face the reality of his inability to return to power.
The death of Henri Konan Bédié also raises the question of the future of the PDCI, the oldest political party in Côte d’Ivoire. According to N’Guessan, the party can survive its death, despite the internal struggles it is currently going through. The PDCI has already gone through several crises, but its loyal electorate allows it to continue to weigh in the Ivorian political landscape. However, it remains to be seen how the succession will take place and if a clan will succeed in imposing itself within the party.
Beyond his political career, Henri Konan Bédié was also recognized as a kingmaker. He knew how to ally himself with the right people to win the presidential elections. Despite controversy and criticism, he has played a role in bringing peace and reconciliation to Côte d’Ivoire, although his methods have sometimes been questioned.
The death of Henri Konan Bédié therefore marks a turning point in Ivorian politics. His legacy and influence will be felt for years to come. It now remains to observe how the PDCI and the Ivorian political scene will evolve without it