The regional elections in Guémon, a department in western Côte d’Ivoire, were marked by violence and dysfunction which prevented the proclamation of the results by the independent electoral commission (CEI). In a statement, the CEI said that acts of violence, massive destruction of equipment and the ransacking of the headquarters of the local commission took place in the Kouibly department. These incidents forced electoral agents to be exfiltrated by security forces and had an impact on 21 of the 34 polling stations in the municipal constituency, which were unable to carry out the counting.
This situation has created an impasse at the regional level, because the results of the elections in the department of Kouibly are essential for the proclamation of the final results. Faced with this, the CEI contacted the Council of State in order to cancel electoral and municipal operations in this department and to organize new elections in a few months.
The competing candidates strongly criticized this situation, denouncing a hostile climate and acts of intimidation. Some reported the use of money and motorcycles to influence voters. Allegations of corruption have also been raised, involving tellers who allegedly falsified the minutes. Unsealed ballot boxes and pre-made minutes were mentioned, calling into question the accuracy of the announced scores.
This situation raises questions about the transparency and integrity of the electoral process in Guémon. The authorities will have to take measures to guarantee the safety of voters and electoral agents, in order to allow free and fair elections to be held. It is essential to restore citizens’ confidence in the democratic process and ensure that every voice counts.
Holding new elections in Guémon will be crucial to guarantee democratic representation and allow residents to make their voices heard. In the meantime, it is essential that measures are taken to prevent such incidents in the future and to promote a culture of dialogue, tolerance and respect in the electoral process. Côte d’Ivoire has always been a key player in democracy in West Africa, and it is important to ensure that this commitment continues.