Several opposition parties in Cote d’Ivoire have formed the Coalition for a Peaceful Alternation to demand electoral reforms ahead of the October presidential elections. The coalition includes the PDCI, MGC, and COJEP but lacks the support of Laurent Gbagbo’s party. Analysts suggest that this coalition might affect the ruling party’s prospects, especially if elections go to a second round.
In Cote d’Ivoire, numerous opposition parties have united to form a coalition named the Coalition for a Peaceful Alternation in advance of the October presidential elections. This coalition aims to advocate for electoral reforms and establish a counterbalance to the ruling party’s influence. Notable members include the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI), the Movement of Capable Generations (MGC), led by former first lady Simone Gbagbo, and Charles Blé Goudé’s Young Patriots of Ivory Coast (COJEP).
Simone Gbagbo, representing the coalition, remarked, “For its part, our coalition decided today to take another step forward in its project to strengthen the grouping of the opposition by formalizing this structure.” However, the absence of former president Laurent Gbagbo’s party raises concerns about vote fragmentation among the opposition, potentially aiding the ruling party unless broader support is secured.
Political analyst Christophe Koffi notes that President Alassane Ouattara’s party might face challenges if the elections proceed to a second round. He asserts, “Unlike in Cameroon, the political parties have formed a bloc and the electorate will be very large around this bloc. If they manage to force the party in power to a second round, there will be a grouping of all the opposition voters around whoever comes in pole position and I think that this could upset the ruling party.” Koffi cautions against underestimating the influence of the newly established coalition.
As the campaign evolves into a highly competitive atmosphere, it remains uncertain what effect this coalition will have in the upcoming October elections.
The formation of the Coalition for a Peaceful Alternation marks a significant development in Cote d’Ivoire’s political landscape ahead of the presidential elections. With major parties uniting to demand electoral reforms and provide a balanced power structure, the coalition’s potential impact remains to be seen. The challenge of unifying opposition votes, particularly in light of prominent absences, poses risks to their effectiveness against the ruling party.
Original Source: www.graphic.com.gh
