Former Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo has urged the government to engage in discussions with all stakeholders ahead of the October 2025 presidential election to ensure a fair and peaceful vote.
Speaking at a weekend rally in Marcory, Abidjan, Gbagbo, leader of the opposition party PPA-CI, emphasized the importance of freedom of expression in a democratic society.
He condemned the harassment of individuals with opposing views, stating that elections should be conducted in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.
Regarding the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI), Gbagbo insisted on the need for a truly neutral and independent body to oversee the election. He recalled the CEI’s creation in 2000 under former military ruler Robert Guei, following intense political struggles in which he played a key role.
Despite being pardoned in 2022 by President Alassane Ouattara after his 2018 conviction for allegedly robbing the BCEAO, Gbagbo remains ineligible to run due to his criminal record.
He would require an amnesty to be reinstated on the Ivorian electoral list.