Ivorian political circles are abuzz following the announcement of a new sovereignist movement spearheaded by former presidential candidate Ahoua Don Mello. On July 11, 2026, in Abidjan, supporters and campaign team members formalized their decision to transform his existing movement into a fully-fledged political party, marking a significant milestone in the country’s democratic landscape.
The decision was unanimously endorsed during a plenary assembly, where participants approved a resolution to establish the new political formation. Ahoua Don Mello was entrusted with leading the process toward its official launch. The gathering, held under the chairmanship of Ipou Ludovic, included Ahile Fernand (Léo Côte d’Ivoire) as secretary and Brou Jean-Baptiste as rapporteur.
A commission led by Me Sery Zokou, comprising key figures such as Kouamé Kouakou (OK), cabinet director, and members like Claudel Guiguy, Askène Cissé, Franck Stéphane Dedy, and Arsène Touho, had previously deliberated on the necessity of formalizing the movement into a structured political entity. Their findings, presented by Sery Sara Soko and supported by Mathieu N’Guatta and others, underscored the urgency of this transition.
The new party aims to embody values of democracy, social justice, good governance, solidarity, and national sovereignty. Its mission is to foster national development and renewal, positioning itself as a progressive alternative in Ivorian politics. Addressing the assembly, Ahoua Don Mello outlined the foundational principles of the project, calling on patriotic, democratic, and sovereignist forces to unite under this initiative. His vision centers on building a “more just, prosperous, united, and fully sovereign Côte d’Ivoire.”
The preparatory phase for the party’s founding congress, dubbed the “Congrès des pionniers,” has already begun, with further details to be announced in due course. The assembly concluded with a spirit of fraternity, cohesion, and optimism, as participants reaffirmed their commitment to advancing this political force with discipline and unity.
A sovereignist alternative for Côte d’Ivoire
The establishment of this new party reflects a growing demand among Ivorian citizens for political alternatives that prioritize national interests. The movement’s emphasis on sovereignty, good governance, and social justice aligns with contemporary challenges facing the nation. By positioning itself as a unifying force, it seeks to mobilize diverse segments of society under a shared vision for progress.
Next steps: building the party’s foundation
The upcoming “Congrès des pionniers” will serve as the official launchpad for the party, where its statutes, leadership, and strategic roadmap will be finalized. The event is expected to galvanize support and set the tone for the movement’s role in shaping Côte d’Ivoire’s political future. Ahoua Don Mello has urged all potential allies to engage in this collective endeavor, emphasizing that the party’s success hinges on broad-based participation.
