Côte d’Ivoire opposition urges dialogue with government over election reform

PDCI-RDA pushes for inclusive political talks to address national challenges

The Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire – African Democratic Rally (PDCI-RDA), the country’s leading opposition party, has renewed its call for structured political dialogue with the government of President Alassane Ouattara. The appeal focuses on resolving key national issues, including the establishment of an independent electoral body and the safe return of party leader Cheick Tidjane Thiam.

The announcement was made by Bredoumy Soumaïla Kouassi Traoré, the PDCI-RDA’s spokesperson, during a press briefing held on May 13 at the party’s headquarters in Cocody, Abidjan. The event brought together journalists and political observers to discuss pressing concerns affecting the nation.

Demands for an independent electoral commission

‘’We are advocating for a meaningful political dialogue with the government to tackle the issues plaguing our country,’’ Traoré stated. ‘’Our party is fully prepared to engage in discussions aimed at creating a truly independent electoral commission. The PDCI-RDA insists that this new body must operate with complete autonomy from political interference.’’

Internal party dynamics and future strategies

In response to growing calls from some party members for closer collaboration with the ruling Rassemblement des Houphouëtistes pour la Démocratie et la Paix (RHDP), Traoré clarified that these voices do not reflect the official stance of the party, which is led by Thiam. ‘’While we do not rule out dialogue, these calls do not represent the position of the PDCI-RDA leadership,’’ he explained. ‘’Our party believes in constructive engagement, not confrontation—we have no permanent enemies.’’

The spokesperson also addressed recent internal developments, including the emergence of the ‘Héritiers pour la Démocratie et la Légalité (HDL)’ faction led by Valérie Yapo. Traoré emphasized that the party’s statutes do not recognize the formation of internal political currents, signaling a commitment to party unity.

Economic concerns and leadership return

Traoré highlighted the ongoing crisis in Côte d’Ivoire’s coffee and cocoa sectors, calling for urgent government intervention. He also criticized certain aspects of the 2026-2030 National Development Plan (PND), describing some of its targets as unrealistic given current economic conditions.

On the matter of Thiam’s return from abroad—where he has been since last year—Traoré stressed the need for ‘’guarantees’’ to ensure his safe and dignified return. ‘’Any insult directed at Tidjane Thiam is an insult to the entire PDCI-RDA,’’ he asserted. As Vice-President of the Ivorian National Assembly, Traoré underscored the party’s readiness to resume governance responsibilities in the future.

The PDCI-RDA’s leadership remains firm in its call for reform, unity, and progress, reaffirming its ambition to contribute meaningfully to Côte d’Ivoire’s development trajectory.