Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – During a major congress held in Abidjan, Patrick Achi, President of the Rassemblement des Houphouëtistes pour la Démocratie et la Paix (RHDP) Congress, officially submitted for approval the designation of President Alassane Ouattara as the party’s candidate for the upcoming presidential election scheduled for October 2025.
“I submit to the Congress for approval the decision to nominate President Alassane Ouattara as the RHDP candidate for the October 2025 elections,” announced Patrick Achi to a cheering crowd. The decision was adopted by acclamation.
Chants of “ADO, ADO” As soon as the announcement was made, the crowd erupted in chants of “ADO, ADO,” the initials of Alassane Dramane Ouattara. For RHDP supporters, the choice of the outgoing president as the party’s flagbearer is a no-brainer. Many praised his track record and leadership.
“In 2011, Côte d’Ivoire was in crisis. Alassane Ouattara managed to revive the economy and develop the country,” said Nina, a party activist, speaking to RFI’s correspondent in Abidjan, Bineta Diagne. “In a context of instability across West Africa, he embodies stability.”
According to Education Minister Mariatou Koné, “Throughout May, during pre-congress meetings, militants consistently selected Alassane Ouattara for his leadership and effective management of the party.”
Awaiting Confirmation Though the nomination was adopted by acclamation, party officials note that it still requires a formal vote. At 83 years old, President Ouattara has remained ambiguous about whether he intends to run for a fourth term, keeping both the public and political observers in suspense.
All eyes are now on his expected speech on Sunday morning at the Ébimpé Stadium—a symbolic venue where Côte d’Ivoire lifted the Africa Cup of Nations trophy last year. A massive rally is scheduled there to close the RHDP congress, and many anticipate that the president will finally clarify his intentions.
Miroir Guinea
