President Alassane Ouattara has officially submitted his candidacy for the October 25, 2025 presidential election to the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) in Abidjan.
He arrived at the commission’s headquarters on August 26, welcomed by thousands of supporters and ruling RHDP party activists, before meeting with CEI President Ibrahime Kuibiert-Coulibaly to hand in his candidacy documents.
His decision to seek a fourth term has been strongly criticized by the opposition, which insists the constitution only permits two terms.
By the close of submissions at midday on August 26, about 40 candidates had filed to contest, including former President Laurent Gbagbo and Tidjane Thiam, both of whom face questions over their eligibility.
Ouattara has urged Ivorians to safeguard peace, stability, and democratic principles throughout the campaign, describing his bid as a continuation of efforts to sustain development and national unity.
