In Abidjan, a significant coalition of political and civic organizations, comprising the Alliance of Ivorians for Democracy (AID) and the Union of Popular Masses for Peace (UMPP), recently lauded the government’s commitment to overhauling electoral governance. This strategic decision, they believe, clearly demonstrates the administration’s responsiveness to the concerns articulated by various political actors and civil society groups.
Speaking through their spokesperson, Zadi Djédjé, the joint entity conveyed profound satisfaction following an informational gathering held on June 22 at the Prime Minister’s Office. This crucial meeting, presided over by Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé, specifically addressed the restructuring of the nation’s electoral body.
The AID-UMPP views the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI), whose members’ terms had concluded, alongside the unveiling of a fresh electoral governance framework, as a direct answer to persistent demands from political parties and diverse civil society organizations over many years.
This significant reform, according to the group, ushers in a “new chapter” for election management across Côte d’Ivoire. Its core objectives are to enhance the transparency of the electoral process, rebuild trust among political stakeholders, and effectively mitigate both pre- and post-election crises.
While acknowledging the achievements of the former CEI, the coalition also commended the government’s initiative to establish a new electoral mechanism. This proposed system will feature three distinct bodies, each tasked with specific responsibilities: the logistical organization of elections, the meticulous counting of ballots, and the overarching supervision of the entire electoral procedure.
The AID-UMPP firmly believes that this reform is grounded in fundamental principles of professionalization, neutrality, transparency, and efficiency. These tenets are deemed crucial for the enduring consolidation of institutional stability and for bolstering the credibility of future polls.
Furthermore, the group extended an invitation to all political parties, civil society organizations, community leaders, and every participant in the electoral process. They urged them to support the implementation of these reforms with a spirit of shared responsibility, patriotism, and constructive dialogue.
Simultaneously, while encouraging the government to persist in its endeavors for national stability and cohesion, the AID-UMPP appealed to political actors to place their confidence in the Republic’s institutions. They underscored that upholding institutional respect remains a vital factor in strengthening democracy and safeguarding peace within Côte d’Ivoire.
