Ivorian authorities have announced the deployment of 44,000 Defense and Security Forces (FDS) agents across the country beginning October 5 to secure the presidential election scheduled for October 25, 2025.
The measure, adopted Thursday by the National Security Council (CNS) under the chairmanship of President Alassane Ouattara, is part of Operation “Hope”, designed to guarantee a peaceful and secure vote.
The plan provides for mixed patrols on foot and by vehicle, including 18,000 police officers, 18,000 gendarmes, and 8,000 soldiers, deployed in major cities and rural areas.
The announcement comes less than a week before the official election campaign period, set for October 10–23.
Five candidates are contesting the presidency:Incumbent Alassane Ouattara, Former minister Jean-Louis Billon, Former minister Ahoua Don Mello (ally of Laurent Gbagbo), Former First Lady Simone Ehivet Gbagbo and Former minister Henriette Lagou.
Security remains a major concern as the opposition rejects Ouattara’s bid for a fourth term. Despite a ban on public protests, opposition groups plan to march on October 4. Several disqualified candidates are also demanding the suspension of the process.
Côte d’Ivoire’s electoral history remains fragile. The 2010 post-election crisis left over 3,000 people dead, while violence surrounding the 2020 polls caused at least 85 deaths and nearly 500 injuries.
