The Panafrican Platform of Women and Youth for Peace, Democracy and Governance (2PFJ) has called for an open, participatory and constructive political dialogue to drive sustainable electoral reforms in Côte d’Ivoire.
In a statement released on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, the organization emphasized the urgent need for a thorough assessment of the country’s socio-political climate, which has been scarred by recurring crises. The 2PFJ stressed that electoral governance reforms, which lie at the heart of the nation’s democratic foundations, cannot be confined to superficial consultations.
Building consensus for credible electoral institutions
To ensure broad-based trust, the 2PFJ recommended that the Ivorian government transform the reform process into a structured negotiation platform, bringing together all national stakeholders. The organization proposed the creation of joint technical commissions composed of representatives from the government, opposition parties and civil society.
These commissions would be tasked with defining the mandates, financial autonomy and independence of the three proposed new electoral bodies—or any alternative institutional framework deemed appropriate. The goal is to establish a consensus-driven electoral management system that reflects the will of all parties involved.
The 2PFJ’s proposals are outlined in a document signed by Jean-Martial N’Guessan, Chair of the organization’s board. Beyond institutional reforms, the platform highlighted the necessity of fostering a climate of mutual trust to ensure the success of the dialogue.
Key demands for a peaceful transition
Among its recommendations, the 2PFJ urged the Ivorian authorities to:
- Release individuals detained on politically motivated grounds;
- Facilitate the safe return of exiled citizens;
- Ensure meaningful representation of women’s and youth organizations in future electoral bodies to strengthen inclusive civic oversight.
The organization acknowledged that Côte d’Ivoire’s electoral crises have deeply affected its people. Yet, it pointed to the country’s resilience, citing past examples where Ivorians overcame divisions for the greater good of the nation.
The reform of electoral governance, in its view, presents an opportunity to unite citizens around a shared vision: building a stable, peaceful and prosperous Côte d’Ivoire.
Government’s role in shaping a new electoral framework
Following the dissolution of the former Independent Electoral Commission (CEI), the Ivorian government organized a major working session on June 22, 2026, chaired by the Prime Minister, Robert Beugré Mambé. The meeting, described as an expanded information session, convened political parties, movements and civil society organizations to explore pathways for electoral system reform and sustainable solutions.
