The debate over electoral governance reform in Côte d’Ivoire has intensified following the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). On May 14, 2026, the Platform of 37 Organizations, NGOs, associations, and Ivorian civil society movements (PEC-CI) addressed these concerns in a press conference held in Abidjan.

The PEC-CI, led by its president Ebrin Yao Rémi, has called on authorities to initiate a direct and inclusive political dialogue with key opposition figures, including Laurent Gbagbo and Tidjane Thiam. The platform argues that such a dialogue is crucial to easing political tensions and fostering a collaborative environment for building a consensus-based electoral framework.

The PEC-CI emphasized that the country’s stability hinges on the ability of political forces to engage in transparent discussions. In a climate marked by persistent disagreements over election organization, the platform insists on prioritizing the greater good to restore public trust in the electoral process.

Proposals for a revamped electoral system

The platform has put forward a proposal to completely overhaul the electoral system. It recommends entrusting the organization of elections exclusively to civil society, excluding direct participation from political parties. According to the PEC-CI, the new institution should be formed through an open call for applications, ensuring the selection of competent, independent, and transparent members.

Additionally, the platform suggests that this future body should have its own autonomous budget, approved by the National Assembly, to enhance its financial and institutional independence. This proposal comes amid growing mistrust between political actors and electoral institutions. The PEC-CI justifies its stance by criticizing the performance of the current CEI, citing past electoral processes marred by violence, contested results, and tragic loss of life—issues it attributes to the flaws in the existing model.

While acknowledging that the former CEI was a product of political compromises, the platform regrets that its dissolution was decided without prior consultation with opposition groups and key civil society actors. Such a lack of engagement, it warns, could further destabilize the political climate ahead of upcoming elections.

Restoring trust through reform

The PEC-CI concludes by urging a deep and consensual reform of Côte d’Ivoire’s electoral system—a move it deems essential for rebuilding trust among institutions, political actors, and citizens.

In summary, the civil society platform is advocating for a structural shift in how elections are organized, with a focus on transparency and inclusivity to prevent future conflicts.