Polls have closed and vote counting is underway in Ivory Coast’s presidential election, where incumbent President Alassane Ouattara is seeking a controversial fourth term amid growing political tension and voter apathy. Voting officially ended at 6 p.m. on Saturday, with only small crowds seen at polling stations across major cities, including Abidjan and Bouaké. Election observers reported a calm but noticeably low turnout. Leticia Bea, a local teacher, said she voted to set an example for her students. “It’s our civic duty. For the children that we teach, the example must start with us,” she said after casting her ballot.
The 83-year-old Ouattara, who has led Ivory Coast since 2011, faced five challengers in the race. However, several key opposition figures including former President Laurent Gbagbo and ex-Prime Minister Guillaume Soro were disqualified earlier this year, drawing criticism from rights groups and opposition parties. Ouattara’s decision to run again, despite a constitutional two-term limit, sparked widespread protests in August. Political rallies were later banned, and clashes between demonstrators and police in Abidjan’s Blockhauss neighborhood left several injured and hundreds arrested.
Still, many Ivorians voiced hope for a peaceful outcome. “There is no point in using violence to spoil the country,” said Leterigue Sekongo, an electrical engineer in Abidjan. “Peace should be our priority.” Ivory Coast, the world’s top cocoa producer, has seen steady economic growth under Ouattara, averaging about 6% annually. Yet poverty remains high, with more than a third of its 30 million citizens living below the poverty line, and unemployment among youth remains a pressing issue. Analysts expect a low voter turnout compared to previous elections, reflecting widespread disillusionment with a process many see as stacked in favor of the ruling party the Rally of Houphouetistes for Democracy and Peace (RHDP), which already holds a parliamentary majority. Official results are expected on Sunday, with early projections suggesting Ouattara remains the frontrunner to extend his 14-year rule, potentially cementing his status as one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
