** Ivory Coast: towards a renewal of the political mobilization of the PDCI? **
On April 24, 2025, a significant event took place in Abidjan, where a group of activists from the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI) gathered, although in a limited manner, to express his support for Tidjane Thiam, their leader. This gathering on exclusion funds from the emblematic candidate raises many questions about the current state of political mobilization in the country, a few months before the presidential elections.
### A symbolic gathering
With around 200 participants, the event was largely below expectations, suggesting a particularly tense political context. The participants gathered to the permanence of the PDCI before the march provided for the neighboring court was canceled. The PDCI deputies, Simon Doho, justified this decision, explaining that it was not appropriate to demonstrate at that time, stressing that the real issue is played out during the May 8 audience which could determine the political future of Tidjane Thiam.
The interest of activists, manifested by songs and slogans, indicates a certain attachment to their leader, but also raises doubts about the capacity of the PDCI to bring together its troops in a context of increasing division.
### Political context
The current situation follows growing political tensions in Côte d’Ivoire, exacerbated by controversial judicial decisions, in particular the exclusion of Tidjane Thiam from the electoral list. The decision, which is based on questions of nationality, suggests that the political situation is complex and delicate, reflecting fractures within Ivorian society.
The history of Ivorian policy supports this reading. Figures like former President Laurent Gbagbo have also been dismissed, illustrating a trend that could affect democracy in the country. The deterioration of confidence in the judicial and political system raises questions about the legitimacy of the authorities in place and their desire to include all voices in the democratic process.
### Tidjane Thiam: a controversial leader
Tidjane Thiam, a technocratic figure, faces a major challenge. Although he expressed his determination not to present another candidate, he must sail in a hostile political environment, where the perception of legitimacy seems essential. Ousmane Zina, professor of political science, underlines that the electoral mobilization of Thiam still seems fragile, and it may be necessary to adopt other approaches to rally the bases of the PDCI.
In addition, the reaction of the party in power, the rally for the Houphouëttes for democracy and peace (RHDP), which is distant from the accusations of harmful political influences on the PDCI, indicates that the electoral dynamics may be particularly acrimonious in the coming months. Declarations of political poisoning echo a habit where political polarization often reduces spaces for constructive dialogue.
### Future prospects
The coming months will be crucial to assess the chances of Tidjane Thiam and the PDCI in a constantly evolving political landscape. The mobilization of the militant base, as well as the support of other political and social actors, will be essential to counter the current difficulties. The question remains: will Tidjane Thiam manage to transform his supporters into a collective force sufficiently united to face adversity?
Ivorian citizens, in their diversity, seem to be at the crossroads. Their political choices could either strengthen existing tensions, or open new paths to national dialogue and appeasement. The issue of these elections does not only concern the results, but also the process that will allow each voice to be heard. Perhaps it is time to encourage political parties to develop mobilization strategies that transcend simple partisan affiliations, thus promoting more inclusive citizen participation.
This dynamic could ultimately strengthen democracy in Côte d’Ivoire, allowing the country to reconcile with its past while building a more harmonious future.