Ivorian president Ouattara, 83, wins fourth presidential term

Alassane Ouattara Secures Fourth Term as President of Ivory Coast at Age 83

In a significant yet controversial development in West African politics, President Alassane Ouattara of Ivory Coast has won a fourth term in office following the country’s latest presidential election.

At 83 years old, Ouattara continues to extend his long-standing leadership over the nation, having first assumed the presidency in 2011.

According to provisional results released by the Independent Electoral Commission (CIE) on Monday evening, Ouattara secured a commanding 89.77% of the vote, translating to approximately 3.75 million ballots cast in his favor. His closest rival, businessman Jean-Louis Billon, garnered a distant 3.09% of the vote.

Voter turnout was reported at 50.1%, reflecting a moderate level of civic engagement amid a politically tense atmosphere.

This election marks Ouattara’s fourth term, a feat made possible by a constitutional revision in 2016. Originally, the Ivorian constitution limited presidents to two terms.

However, the 2016 overhaul reset the term count, allowing Ouattara to run again in 2020, a move that was met with significant opposition and a boycott by major political parties. 

The 2025 election has similarly drawn criticism, with opposition groups, particularly those aligned with former President Laurent Gbagbo and politician Mamadou Koulibaly Thiam, denouncing the process as a “civilian coup d’état.” These groups have publicly declared their refusal to recognize Ouattara as the legitimately elected leader.

Ouattara’s political journey has been marked by both economic reform and political turbulence. He first rose to power in the aftermath of the 2010 election crisis, which culminated in the arrest of then-incumbent Laurent Gbagbo, who refused to concede defeat.

Since then, Ouattara has maintained a firm grip on power, navigating the country through periods of economic growth as well as political unrest.

The final confirmation of the election results now rests with the Constitutional Council, which will review any legal challenges or petitions before making an official declaration.

The outcome of this review could influence the political climate in the coming weeks, especially if opposition parties pursue legal avenues to contest the results.

Ouattara’s continued leadership raises broader questions about democratic transitions and political longevity in Africa. His re-election, alongside similar developments in other African nations, has sparked debate about the concentration of power among aging leaders and the barriers faced by younger political aspirants.

Critics argue that such extended tenures undermine democratic institutions and stifle political innovation, while supporters claim that experienced leadership ensures stability and continuity.

As Ivory Coast awaits the Constitutional Council’s final word, the nation stands at a crossroads, balancing the legacy of a seasoned statesman with the growing calls for political renewal and generational change.