The Ivorian political landscape has been shaken by a major institutional decision after President Alassane Ouattara announced the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI), citing the need to restore confidence in the country’s electoral processes.
The decision was made following a Council of Ministers meeting, where an ordinance and a draft ratification law were adopted to formalize the dissolution of the institution, which has overseen elections in Côte d’Ivoire since October 2001. While acknowledging the “significant progress” achieved over the past 25 years, President Ouattara admitted that previous elections had generated criticism and reservations that affected the credibility of the electoral system.
According to the presidency, the dissolution is intended to pave the way for the creation of a new election management mechanism capable of ensuring transparent, peaceful and credible elections.
President Ouattara stated that the move forms part of broader efforts to consolidate democracy and strengthen trust among political actors and citizens.
The future structure of the new body has not yet been defined, but authorities say its main mission will be to guarantee confidence in the electoral process and safeguard the expression of universal suffrage.
The decision is also seen as an attempt to address concerns repeatedly raised by opposition parties and civil society groups regarding the neutrality and effectiveness of the electoral commission.
