A storm of dissatisfaction is brewing among the country’s youth as incumbent President Alassane Ouattara, aged 83, presses ahead with a bid for a fourth term in the upcoming Oct. 25 presidential election — triggering protests, debate about constitutional limits and questions over political renewal. (AP News)
Youth frustration hits a crescendo
More than 75 % of Côte d’Ivoire’s population is under the age of 35, yet joblessness, lack of opportunity and a poverty rate of approximately 37.5 % persist despite strong overall economic growth. (AP News)
Among the voices rising is 33-year-old Abidjan slam poet Placide Konan, who rails at the stagnation he sees:
“People can no longer make ends meet… You have to be very lucky, or a bit of a magician, to live comfortably.” (Connecticut Post)
This sentiment captures much of the younger generation’s mood: a sense that the political system repeatedly favours continuity and senior leaders, while youth feel left behind.
The fourth-term bid and constitutional controversy
Ouattara announced his intent to run for a fourth term on the grounds that a 2016 constitutional reform reset the presidential term count — though critics argue this violates earlier protections against more than two terms. (Financial Times)
Major opposition figures such as Tidjane Thiam (ex-Credit Suisse CEO) and former President Laurent Gbagbo were disqualified for nationality or other legal grounds, contributing to a fragmented and weakened challenge. (AP News)
From the campaign’s opening, opposition rallies were met with a heavy security presence and bans on public gatherings. On Oct. 11 alone, the campaign launch featured 44,000 security personnel deployed nationwide amid arrests of dozens of protesters. (Le Monde.fr)
Government stance and economy
The Ouattara administration points to sustained economic growth — about 6 % in 2024 — and large infrastructure investments (roads, urban transit in Abidjan, and regional expansion) as evidence of progress. (Africanews)
At a youth-oriented rally, Ouattara emphasised his commitment to young Ivorians:
“I have always been committed to offering the best to our youth so you can start businesses, work, learn and be independent.” (WRAL.com)
Nevertheless, critics say that growth has not translated into enough jobs and that economic gains remain uneven — especially for the north of the country and younger cohorts. (WJXT)
Risks to stability and regional context
Analysts warn that the growing disconnect between youth aspirations and political power risks undermining stability in a region already challenged by insecurity and political turbulence. “This is not the fault of the Ivorian government, but that is the reality of the regional situation,” noted a researcher on West Africa. (Africanews)
In the lead-up to the vote, at least three people were reported killed amid protests and confrontations with security forces. The election is being held in an atmosphere of heightened tension and deep scepticism about fairness. (WRAL.com)
Why this matters
Generational gap: A youthful majority is increasingly unwilling to accept what they view as political stagnation and insufficient job prospects.
Democratic credibility: The sidelining of prominent rivals and the constitutional manoeuvring raise concerns among international observers about the quality of the electoral process.
Regional spill-overs: With West Africa witnessing rising unrest and coups, Côte d’Ivoire’s political contest is being watched as a barometer of governance and stability in the region.
What to watch
Whether the youth protests escalate into larger unrest post-election.
The manner in which the election results are accepted or contested domestically.
Post-election economic policy: whether there will be substantive reforms addressing youth unemployment and opportunity gaps.
