Tidjane Thiam has renounced his French citizenship to qualify for Ivory Coast’s presidential election in October, where he is a likely candidate. As leader of the PDCI opposition party, Thiam expressed his desire for real change in the country. President Alassane Ouattara is contemplating a fourth term, which could incite opposition challenges.

Tidjane Thiam, the former CEO of Credit Suisse, has officially renounced his French citizenship to qualify for the presidential election in Ivory Coast scheduled for October. His decision aligns with his leadership of the PDCI opposition party, which is deliberating its presidential nominee. Thiam shared his determination for change in a Facebook video, emphasizing his commitment to improving the lives of Ivorians.

Tidjane Thiam’s political journey is rooted in his previous role as a minister under President Henri Konan Bedie before a military coup forced his departure from Ivory Coast in 1999. Since then, he has built a distinguished career in financial services, including leadership roles at significant companies such as McKinsey, Aviva, Prudential, and Credit Suisse, before returning to his homeland to enter politics as the leader of the PDCI party, a key player in Ivorian politics.

Thiam’s renunciation of French citizenship not only underscores his commitment to running for the presidency of Ivory Coast but also positions him as a central figure in the upcoming political race, particularly against incumbent President Alassane Ouattara, who is considering a fourth term amid opposition scrutiny. His history and recent political moves suggest he aims to bring substantial reforms to the nation as he prepares for candidacy.

Original Source: www.usnews.com