### Tidjane Thiam: the choice of an Ivorian identity and its political implications
In Côte d’Ivoire, the political scene is preparing for a crucial presidential election, as the political landscape undergoes notable transformations. A symbolic act has just marked this transition: Tidjane Thiam, president of the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire – African Democratic Rally (PDCI -RDA), has officially renounced its French nationality. This factor, although administent on paper, is part of a larger dynamic, that of a country in search of reconciliation and political stability.
### The constitutional context and the electoral framework
Article 55 of the Ivorian Constitution requires that any candidate for the presidency be “exclusively” Ivorian. This framework is part of a historical heritage, marking the end of the plural governance which has long prevailed in the country. In this context, dual nationality is perceived not only as a legal constraint, but also as an obstacle to the socio -political acceptance of a candidate. Tidjane Thiam’s decision to abandon her French nationality is therefore much more than just a formality; It meets a growing popular requirement for political authenticity.
The current political climate is tinged with fears and anxiety. Several emblematic figures of Ivorian political life, such as Laurent Gbagbo, are absent from the electoral lists. This raises the question of the representativeness and inclusiveness of future elections. Far from being a simple individual problem, Thiam’s situation is part of a broader national problem, that of an Ivorian society still plagued by historical tensions.
#### A campaign strategy in front of the inner enemy
Tidjane Thiam is aware that his candidacy will not be without pitfalls. Before sucking on the presidency, he will have to navigate in the complex framework of the PDCI internal, where he will face Jean-Louis Billon, also refocused on an exclusively Ivorian identity. This coup in a political tradition where internal factionalisms and rivalries are commonplace could well influence the result of the primary of the PDCI.
Beyond the rivalries, Thiam adopts a posture which combines both the affirmation of an Ivorian identity and the concern for inclusive governance. In an interview with France 24, he evokes the fear of an unclusive election. This positioning situates it as a moderator, eager to bring together a country with plural identities, while avoiding the through a systematic exclusion of dissident votes.
### socio -political data to consider
In light of this context, it is essential to observe certain socio -political indicators in Côte d’Ivoire. According to recent studies, almost 70 % of Ivorians believe that national reconciliation must take precedence over individual ambitions. This collective aspiration could influence the choice of voters at the next presidential election. Indeed, the desire to see a new generation of leaders emerge, capable of transcending historical cleavages, is significant in the collective imagination.
Tidjane Thiam, with her atypical career between global finance and local politics, presents itself as a symbolic figure in renewal. However, he must learn to compose with an electoral base which, by definition, is historically marked by power struggles for recognition and legitimacy.
#### Perspectives and implications for the future
Thiam’s decision to renounce his French nationality, although praised by some, could also arouse criticism. Indeed, the identity question in Côte d’Ivoire is delicate and often instrumentalized by political adversaries. However, it is a strategic approach that could allow it to seduce an electoral fringe wishing to see strong and united leadership.
As the elections are getting closer, this news highlights not only immediate political issues, but also the need for extended national dialogue. Calls for an inclusive election should not be considered as simple slogans, but as an imperative to guarantee peace and stability. The voice of Tidjane Thiam, an instrumental in this process, could be ahead of the fractures of the past, striving to embody a shared future for Côte d’Ivoire.