Amnesty International has called on authorities in Ivory Coast to release dozens of people arrested during protests linked to the country’s October presidential election, citing concerns about arbitrary detentions. The rights group says several of those detained were arrested simply for being near demonstrations that erupted during the campaign period. Among the detainees are three women in advanced stages of pregnancy, raising concerns about their health and treatment while in custody. The election resulted in incumbent president Alassane Ouattara securing a controversial fourth term in office. The poll was widely criticised after two major opposition candidates were barred from contesting the race, triggering protests and political tensions across parts of the country.
According to Amnesty International, many people arrested during the unrest were not directly involved in violent activities. A lawyer representing the pregnant detainees said the women were taken into custody while going about their daily activities and have since suffered both mental and physical distress. Government officials have defended the arrests, saying the state is committed to maintaining public order and upholding the rule of law. A government spokesperson stated that those detained had committed offences related to the protests. The political controversy surrounding Ouattara’s presidency dates back several years. In 2016, constitutional changes allowed the resetting of presidential term limits, a move that critics say paved the way for Ouattara to extend his time in power beyond the traditional two-term limit. Human rights organisations have urged authorities to review the arrests and ensure that people detained without clear evidence of wrongdoing are released promptly.
