The Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire – African Democratic Rally (PDCI-RDA), the leading opposition party in the country, has renewed its demand for political dialogue with President Alassane Ouattara’s administration. The call comes as the party seeks to tackle pressing national issues, including the establishment of a new electoral body and the return of its leader, Cheick Tidjane Thiam.
During a press briefing held last Wednesday at the party’s headquarters in Cocody, eastern Abidjan, spokesperson Bredoumy Soumaïla Kouassi Traoré emphasized the urgency of constructive engagement. He stressed that the PDCI-RDA is prepared to participate in any political dialogue aimed at creating a truly independent electoral commission, ensuring transparency and fairness in future elections.
‘’We advocate for a political dialogue with the government to address the challenges undermining our nation,’’ Traoré stated. ‘’Our priority is an electoral body that operates with genuine independence, free from external interference.’’ He also reassured that the party remains vigilant in safeguarding democratic principles.
The spokesperson addressed internal party discussions regarding potential rapprochement with the ruling Rassemblement des Houphouëtistes pour la Démocratie et la Paix (RHDP). While acknowledging differing opinions within the ranks, he clarified that the official stance is set by party president Tidjane Thiam. He added, ‘’We do not rule out dialogue—our party is built on constructive engagement.’’
Highlighting recent turmoil in Côte d’Ivoire’s coffee and cocoa sectors, Traoré also criticized the National Development Plan (PND) 2026-2030, describing some of its provisions as impractical. Additionally, he weighed in on the internal faction ‘Héritiers pour la Démocratie et la Légalité’, led by Valérie Yapo, stating that the PDCI-RDA’s statutes do not permit such internal currents.
Regarding the return of Tidjane Thiam, who has been abroad for months, Traoré insisted that guarantees must be provided for his safe return. ‘’Any insult directed at him is an insult to the entire PDCI-RDA,’’ he declared, reinforcing the party’s unity. As Vice-President of the National Assembly, he also underscored the party’s ambition to regain leadership in governing the country.
