Former Ivorian Minister of Commerce Jean-Louis Billon, a key member of the opposition Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI), has formally submitted his candidacy for the October 25, 2025 presidential election to the Independent Electoral Commission.
Despite lacking official sponsorship from his party, Billon said his bid reflects a commitment to empowering the post-independence generation, strengthening youth involvement in governance, and focusing on employment as the country’s top priority.
A former president of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, he has pledged to transform the Ivorian economy and place the general interest at the center of leadership.
Billon’s candidacy was celebrated with a festive welcome by supporters outside the CEI headquarters, where he greeted the crowd after filing his documents.
His campaign has gained backing from several organizations, which he described as the result of long reflection and preparation.
Billon had already announced his intention to run in 2024 from PDCI’s Dabakala headquarters, while the party’s leader, Tidjane Thiam, who was recently removed from the electoral roll, is also expected to submit a candidacy despite challenges to his eligibility.
