In a significant political event for the Ivory Coast, voters are participating in a presidential election that sees incumbent Alassane Ouattara poised to secure a fourth term. On Saturday, nearly nine million eligible Ivorians cast their ballots between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. GMT, selecting from a diverse array of five candidates.

Ouattara, who has substantially influenced the nation since assuming power in 2011, is widely regarded as the frontrunner in this contest. However, the election occurs amidst criticisms regarding the lack of prominent opposition figures. Key candidates like former President Laurent Gbagbo and ex-Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam have been barred from participating. Gbagbo’s exclusion stems from a criminal conviction, while Thiam’s candidacy was hindered by his dual citizenship.

Opponents contend this exclusion provides Ouattara with a substantial advantage, effectively paving a clear path for his continued leadership. Among his rivals are agribusinessman and former Trade Minister Jean-Louis Billon, who seeks to attract supporters from his previous party. Additionally, Simone Ehivet Gbagbo, a former first lady, aims to consolidate voters from her ex-husband’s base. Other notable candidates include civil engineer Ahoua Don Mello, associated with Pan-African ideologies, and Henriette Lagou Adjoua, a pioneer among female presidential candidates in 2015, representing a centrist coalition.

As voters began assembling at polling stations in the economic capital, Abidjan, the atmosphere remained calm and orderly, with citizens expressing their hopes for the election as a pathway to peace and stability. The turnout will be crucial, especially with opposition groups advocating for a boycott. An estimated 8.7 million individuals aged 18 and above are eligible to participate in a nation of 33 million inhabitants, where the median age is a youthful 18.3 years.

To claim victory in the first round, a candidate must secure an absolute majority. Should no candidate meet this requirement, a second round of voting will ensue. Observers are forecasting that Ouattara will likely achieve the necessary support to win outright.

Despite the excitement surrounding the election, the political climate has not been without its contentious elements. Critics argue that the 2016 constitutional amendment, which Ouattara claims resets term limits, has caused turmoil within the political landscape. His administration has faced allegations of stifling dissent and creating an atmosphere of intimidation. To manage potential unrest, approximately 44,000 security personnel were deployed across strategic locations in the country, particularly in areas known as opposition strongholds.

While historical tensions underpin the current state of affairs—marked by significant violence during the 2010 elections—there is cautious optimism surrounding the upcoming results, which are expected early next week. This election serves as a pivotal moment in defining the Ivorian political landscape and the future trajectory of the region.

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