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In the intricate tapestry of political life, each event is a mirror, reflecting the complexities and underlying dynamics of society. The rejection of Guikahué’s candidacy stands as a poignant example, painting not just the current political challenges but also the aspirations and disillusionments of a nation in its quest for identity and progress.

Political Context and Social Implications

Guikahué’s candidacy, the second-in-command of the PDCI-RDA, dismissed under controversial circumstances, raises critical questions about the state of democracy and freedom of expression within this venerable party. This rejection is symptomatic of a deeper crisis, touching the very foundations of the functioning system of Ivory Coast’s oldest party.

Impact on Democracy and Freedom of Expression

The decision to reject this candidacy sparked public outcry, shining a light on the tensions between the incumbent Baoulé clan and all progressive forces. This situation raises legitimate concerns about the health of our democracy and the ability of citizens to freely and fairly participate in the political process, even within political parties.

Legal and Ethical Analysis of the Rejection

Legally, the rejection of Guikahué’s candidacy can be interpreted in various ways. On one hand, it does not reflect the strict application of existing laws and regulations. On the other, it raises ethical questions about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process within the PDCI-RDA.

Repercussions on National Unity and Social Cohesion

Beyond political and legal implications, this rejection has profound consequences on national unity and social cohesion. The clearest interpretation by public opinion is the tribalism of the Baoulés. This echoes in the collective memory the concept of ‘Ivoirité’, once used on xenophobic grounds to sideline Alassane Ouattara and those considered of “doubtful nationality.”

It is imperative to recognize and address the divisions and frustrations that ensue, to promote a sense of belonging and solidarity among all members.

Towards a More Inclusive Political Future

Faced with these challenges, it is essential to work towards a more inclusive and representative political future. This involves not only revising electoral processes but also engaging in constructive dialogue with all stakeholders, including marginalized voices and minority groups.

The rejection of Guikahué’s candidacy is not just a political event; it is a call to action and reflection for all who care about the future of our democracy. It invites us to critically examine our political system within political parties and to work together for a fairer, more transparent, and inclusive future.

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In a move to align with current demands, the National Assembly has adopted a new law reforming the Order of Dental Surgeons. This reform aims to elevate professional standards and practices in dentistry, reflecting the government’s dedication to healthcare excellence.

Ivory Coast’s Metro Project and Healthcare Reforms: A Leap into the Future

The Ivory Coast government, under the leadership of President Alassane Ouattara, has been actively working on revitalizing the nation’s infrastructure and healthcare system. A key highlight is the relaunch of the Abidjan Metro Line 1 project, which had experienced delays. This ambitious project, spanning 37 kilometers and serving seven districts, is expected to facilitate the daily commute of approximately 500,000 passengers. The government’s decision to close over 1,000 private healthcare facilities lacking proper administrative documents further underscores its commitment to regulating and improving healthcare standards.

World Bank Commends Ivory Coast’s Climate Change Efforts

The World Bank has recognized the Ivory Coast’s endeavors in combating climate change. Detailed in a report, these efforts have garnered international attention, with the financial institution expressing readiness to support the country in fund mobilization. This acknowledgment came during the COP 28 event in the United Arab Emirates, highlighting Ivory Coast’s role as a leader in environmental sustainability.

Infrastructure Development: Building a Resilient Economy

The Council of Ministers presided over by President Ouattara, has reviewed several infrastructure projects, including the Integration Road in the mountainous west region. This project aims to bolster socio-economic infrastructure, facilitating access to various localities and stimulating economic activities, especially in agriculture and mining. The government’s initiative to construct three wholesale markets in Abidjan, Abengourou, and Daloa demonstrates its commitment to reducing the commercialization costs of agricultural products and increasing rural incomes.

Embracing Green Economy: A Sustainable Future

The Minister of Economy, Planning, and Sustainable Development addressed the Economic, Social, Environmental, and Cultural Council on the theme of green economy as an alternative for a more resilient Ivory Coast. This approach is in line with the country’s commitment to responsible economic development and reduced carbon footprint, ensuring a viable planet for present and future generations.

Celebrating Achievements: Ivory Coast’s Champions in Dodgeball

In a lighter yet equally significant note, Prime Minister Robert Bambe received the Ivorian team, the African champions in dodgeball. Their victory against Morocco, the host country, is a testament to the nation’s sporting prowess and youth potential. This achievement not only brings pride to the country but also inspires other disciplines to strive for excellence.

A Nation on the Move

The Ivory Coast’s journey is marked by resilience, innovation, and a commitment to sustainable development. From infrastructure projects to environmental initiatives and healthcare reforms, the nation is steadily paving its way toward a brighter, more prosperous future. As the government continues to implement these transformative projects, the Ivory Coast stands as a beacon of progress and hope in West Africa.

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Against all odds, the acting president, without relying on any text, asked Guikahué to resign from his position as Executive Secretary General for having submitted his candidacy for the presidency of the party.

Relying on Article 43, Professor Maurice Guikahué refused to comply with this order, which appeared out of nowhere to sow discord in the party. Things did not take long: this Sunday, Guikahué’s candidacy was rejected.

It should be noted that among the Baoulés, matrilineal lineage takes precedence. Thus, Tidiane Thiam is more Baoulé, and therefore Ivorian, than Senegalese. Also, in the minds of the majority of PDCI members, a Baoulé must lead the party. Maurice Guikahué was number two only by the graces of Bédié, and not by any ‘ethnic merit.’

Even though the Baoulés and Akans are majorities, the PDCI draws its strength from having been for three decades the sole party in Ivory Coast, a party in which each ethnic group has invested.

This situation risks creating an implosion within the party and reserving sad funerals for the late President Bédié, who is waiting for a presidential decision from Alassane Ouattara for his burial.

The Reaction of Professor Maurice Guikahué’s Committee

The spokesperson for candidate Maurice Kakou Guikahué informed the media yesterday of the rejection of his candidacy. “On Sunday, December 3, 2023, the five candidates, namely Noël Akossi Bendjo, Tidjane Thiam, Jean-Marc Yacé, Maurice Kakou Guikahué, and Moïse Koumoué Koffi met with the expanded conciliation and mediation committee and the electoral committee. During this meeting, they were informed of the conclusions of the analysis report of their respective files. From this report of the electoral committee, it appears that candidate Maurice Kakou Guikahué, head of the executive secretariat and vice-president of Pdci-Rda, meets all the conditions and is eligible according to the criteria of the Pdci-Rda statutes,” revealed MP Konan Marius during a press briefing in Cocody. He added: “Due to the judicial control procedure to which he is subject, the electoral committee cannot take the risk of allowing him to compete for the presidency of the Pdci-Rda.”

As a result, the campaign management considers “the rejection of the candidacy of Professor Maurice Kakou Guikahué as arbitrary and unfounded.” For Konan Marius, their candidate “is being penalized by the Pdci-Rda electoral committee for his commitment to the cause of the Pdci-Rda.”

He further added: “Maurice Kakou Guikahué takes note of this decision. This statement is therefore made to inform national and international opinion so that no one is unaware.”

With this declaration, the campaign management “raises strong protest against this surprising, unjust, and legally unfounded decision.”

And for good reason, the alleged judicial control as the sole reason for the rejection of their champion’s candidacy follows his arrest at the residence of President Henri Konan Bédié, following the events that took place after the October 2020 presidential election.

“Furthermore, judicial control is not a conviction decision that impacts an individual’s civil and political rights. It is merely an administrative measure taken by the investigating judge, without impact on the individual’s criminal record; as evidenced by the clean criminal record produced by candidate Maurice Kakou Guikahué,” stated Konan Marius.

He elaborates his argument: “The judicial control of January 18, 2021, did not affect his eligibility for the March 6, 2021 election, during which he was brilliantly elected as a deputy to the National Assembly of Côte d’Ivoire. Furthermore, despite the judicial control, Professor Maurice Kakou Guikahué, head of the executive secretariat and vice-president of Pdci-Rda, was elected vice-president of the National Assembly for Pdci-Rda in 2021.

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Abdourahmane Cissé, who held the strategic position of Secretary General of the Presidency under President Alassane Ouattara since March 2021, was dismissed on Thursday, November 30, 2023. The real reasons for his dismissal and his destination have been revealed by the colleague Africa Intelligence.

In a surprising political turnaround, Abdourahmane Cissé recently left the Secretariat General of the Presidency. This decision, formalized on November 30, was reportedly made at the end of October, according to exclusive information revealed by Africa Intelligence.

The reasons for this dismissal highlight significant tensions between the trained engineer and the Ivorian head of state, revealing divergences on crucial issues. Behind the scenes, the relationship between the former Minister in charge of the Budget and Alassane Ouattara reportedly deteriorated over the past few months.

The former Minister of Petroleum was marginalized on several strategic fronts, particularly against the Deputy Secretary General of the Presidency, Masséré Touré Koné, and Fidèle Sarassoro, reports the newspaper. Abdourahmane Cissé no longer had a say in matters related to finance and sovereignty budget, a domain reserved for Masséré Touré Koné. Similarly, issues related to diplomacy and defense were concentrated in the hands of Sarassoro.

This marginalization led Mr. Cissé to express his desire to leave his position as early as September—a wish that was reportedly denied by Alassane Ouattara, who prefers to end the functions of his collaborators himself. Abdourahmane Cissé’s situation became even more complicated with the emergence of Vice President Tiemoko Myeliet Koné, a rise in power that contributed to the weakening of his position within the presidency.

As a result, the former SG of the Presidency decided to leave Abidjan to settle in London, his planned destination since his departure. The former operator in the British branch of the investment bank Goldman Sachs in the 2000s, indeed joined the British capital on December 1st with his family, informs Africa Intelligence.

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