Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara has pledged firm legal action against those responsible for the controversial demolition of the Koumassi-Campement neighbourhood in Abidjan, insisting that no one can act in the name of the state outside the law. In his Independence Day address, Ouattara said investigations into the demolitions were ongoing and assured that all those found responsible would face sanctions. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding human dignity and the rule of law, while stressing that future operations to clear high-risk and protected areas would continue in full compliance with legal procedures.
The president also expressed solidarity with victims of recent floods that claimed lives and caused widespread damage across the country. He announced plans to accelerate investments in drainage and sanitation infrastructure, strengthen climate risk prevention measures, and expand social housing programmes to improve resilience. Ouattara said protecting lives and supporting affected communities remain key priorities as Côte d’Ivoire responds to the growing impact of extreme weather events.
