Dozens of opposition parties in Côte d’Ivoire have formed the Coalition for a Peaceful Alternation ahead of the October presidential elections. This coalition aims for electoral reform and equitable power dynamics against the ruling party. Key members include the PDCI and MGC, though former president Laurent Gbagbo’s party is notably absent. Political analysts suggest the coalition may threaten the ruling party if voters unite in a potential runoff election.
In Côte d’Ivoire, numerous opposition parties have united to form a coalition named the Coalition for a Peaceful Alternation in preparation for the presidential elections scheduled for October. This alliance aims to advocate for electoral reforms and strive for a more equitable power dynamic against the ruling party. Key participants in this coalition include the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI), the Movement of Capable Generations (MGC), and Charles Blé Goudé’s Young Patriots of Ivory Coast (COJEP).
Simone Gbagbo, representing the coalition, expressed, “For its part, our coalition decided today to take another step forward in its project to strengthen the grouping of the opposition by formalising this structure.” Notably absent is the party of former president Laurent Gbagbo, which may contribute to a fragmented opposition. With the current opposition split into three factions, there exists a risk of vote division that may inadvertently favor the ruling party unless broader support is secured.
Political analyst Christophe Koffi opines that President Alassane Ouattara’s party should be on alert if the elections proceed to a second round. Koffi stated, “Unlike in Cameroon, the political parties have formed a bloc and the electorate will be very large around this bloc.” He further commented, “If they manage to force the party in power to a second round, there will be a grouping of all the opposition voters around whoever comes in pole position and I think that this could upset the ruling party.”
As the electoral campaign intensifies, the influence of this newly established coalition on the upcoming elections remains to be seen. It represents a significant movement among opposition parties aiming to challenge the status quo.
The formation of the Coalition for a Peaceful Alternation signifies a strategic alliance among multiple opposition parties in Côte d’Ivoire as they prepare for the October presidential elections. Despite the absence of the Laurent Gbagbo party, the coalition’s efforts, particularly those directed towards electoral reforms and voter unity, may pose a challenge to the ruling party, particularly in a potential runoff scenario. The coalition’s success, however, will depend on its ability to consolidate support among the electorate to enhance their electoral impact.
Original Source: www.graphic.com.gh
