Ivory Coast: President Ouattara Sworn In for Fourth Term. Abidjan, Ivory Coast — President Alassane Ouattara of Ivory Coast was officially sworn in for his fourth five-year term on Monday, following the October election that saw low voter turnout and a clampdown on dissent.
The inauguration was attended by several regional leaders, including those from Mauritania, Liberia, Gambia, Ghana, Senegal, and Gabon.
After taking the oath, Ouattara highlighted the progress the nation has made since he first came to power in 2010. “
On Saturday, October 25, Ivorians expressed their sovereign choice. They reaffirmed their commitment to democracy, to stability, and to peace, for which so much effort has been made since 2011,” he stated.
He also addressed regional instability, noting the persistence of terrorist threats that are evolving and digitizing. Ouattara, 83, first assumed power after winning a controversial election in 2010 against his predecessor, Laurent Gbagbo.
The election was followed by deadly unrest that left at least 3,000 people dead before an internationally backed Ouattara, supported by U.
N. And French forces, took control.
His supporters credit him with restoring the war — torn economy of the world’s largest cocoa producer, while critics accuse him of consolidating power.
Leading up to October’s election, key opposition candidates were barred from running, including Tidjane Thiam and former president Laurent Gbagbo. Protests against Ouattara’s bid for a fourth term were widespread, with authorities cracking down on demonstrations, tear-gassing protesters, and arresting hundreds.
Despite the controversy, many in Ivory Coast support Ouattara, believing he has brought stability and growth to a nation that has experienced civil war and post — election violence in recent decades.
Since coming to power, Ouattara has overseen an economic revival, achieving an annual growth rate of 6% fueled by a cocoa boom. While Ivory Coast has a two-term limit, Ouattara oversaw a referendum in 2016 that amended the constitution, allowing him to argue that his terms were reset to zero.
He has also faced criticism from Sahelian countries, such as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, over his alleged support for France, which these countries blame for a decline in regional security.
Further details are expected as the situation unfolds.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
