The inaugural ordinary congress of the Parti des Peuples Africains – Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI) convened on May 14, 2026, at the Palais de la Culture in Treichville, Abidjan. This pivotal political gathering not only saw the reconfirmation of former Ivorian president Laurent Gbagbo at the helm of the party but also ushered in a wave of disciplinary measures targeting numerous senior officials and members.
At 81 years old, Laurent Gbagbo secured his re-election by acclamation, witnessed by nearly 3,000 delegates. This endorsement stemmed from a recommendation by the party’s Central Committee, which expressed a strong desire for the historical leader to continue guiding the political endeavors of the PPA-CI, a party established in October 2021.
With this renewed mandate, the party signals its firm intention to strengthen its standing within the Ivorian opposition, particularly as crucial electoral deadlines loom in Côte d’Ivoire.
Beyond the leadership affirmation, the congress also initiated a significant internal restructuring. Several party officials faced sanctions for failing to adhere to directives issued during the 2025 legislative and presidential elections.
Notably, three prominent party cadres were expelled: Awa Domelo, Fernand Ailé, and Kanga Kwaku Antoine.
Furthermore, 25 party activists received suspensions ranging from 12 to 18 months. Among those suspended for the full 18-month period were Stéphane Kipré and Ouien George Armand.
The disciplinary actions are understood to stem from certain cadres’ support for dissident candidacies, which defied the PPA-CI leadership’s boycott instructions during previous electoral contests.
The situation involving Awa Domelo garnered particular attention. Her initial candidacy had been presented as a precautionary measure, given the legal uncertainties at the time surrounding Laurent Gbagbo’s eligibility.
For the party’s leadership, this comprehensive set of sanctions aims to reinforce internal discipline and clearly define the PPA-CI’s political trajectory as it prepares for upcoming electoral battles.
This congress unfolds amidst a dynamic political landscape in Côte d’Ivoire, where the ruling RHDP consistently demonstrates its organizational strength. Through this display of authority, the PPA-CI intends to underscore that Laurent Gbagbo remains the pivotal figure around whom the party’s future is firmly anchored.
