Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara recently made a decision that caused a stir in Côte d’Ivoire: he dismissed his Prime Minister, Patrick Achi, and announced the imminent formation of a new government. This decision is surprising given that the presidential election is planned in two years.
Without providing a specific reason, President Ouattara signed a decree terminating the functions of Patrick Achi, as well as those of members of the government. However, he expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister and members of the government for their commitment to the service of the nation in recent years.
For several days, this decision had been expected in Côte d’Ivoire, the president having announced an upcoming reshuffle during the last council of ministers. This announcement raises many questions about the reasons which motivated this choice and the possible consequences for the country.
Patrick Achi was appointed Prime Minister in March 2021, following the death of his predecessor, Hamed Bakayoko. He resigned in April 2022 but was reappointed shortly after. His comfortable victory in local elections last month in his Mé region seemed to indicate a certain popularity among the population.
This government reshuffle could be more important than the previous ones and give indications on the future heavyweights of the ruling party, the Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP), with a view to the 2025 presidential election. The RHDP obtained good results in the last local elections, which makes him the big favorite in the upcoming presidential election.
The question that now arises is who will be the RHDP candidate for this presidential election. Alassane Ouattara has not yet announced whether he will run for a fourth term. This uncertainty leaves room for much speculation about the political future of the country.
In conclusion, the dismissal of the Ivorian Prime Minister by President Ouattara and the announcement of an upcoming government reshuffle suggest significant changes to come in Côte d’Ivoire. This decision raises questions about the motivations and consequences of this choice, as well as the political direction of the country as the presidential election approaches.