The Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI), has announced former Credit Suisse chief, Tidjane Thiam, as its presidential candidate for the country’s upcoming elections scheduled for October this year.
Thiam emerged unopposed following the withdrawal of his only rival, former Trade Minister Jean-Louis Billon, from the race.
The 62-year-old renounced his French citizenship in February to qualify for the October election. According to the Ivorian constitution, all presidential candidates must hold only Ivorian citizenship.
Thiam is expected to face President Alassane Ouattara, who is anticipated to seek a fourth term, and former President Laurent Gbagbo, 79, who was acquitted of crimes against humanity by the International Criminal Court in 2019.
© WAVN