The African Peoples’ Party – Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI) convened its inaugural ordinary congress on May 14, 2026, at the Palais de la Culture in Treichville, Abidjan. This significant political gathering saw the former Ivorian president, Laurent Gbagbo, confirmed once again at the helm of the party, alongside a series of disciplinary measures targeting several key figures and members.
At 81 years old, Laurent Gbagbo received an overwhelming acclamation from nearly 3,000 delegates, solidifying his leadership. This decision followed a recommendation from 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.
Through this re-endorsement, the party signals its firm intention to strengthen its position within the Ivorian opposition landscape, particularly as the nation looks towards upcoming electoral contests.
However, the congress was also marked by an extensive internal reorganization. Several party officials faced sanctions for failing to adhere to directives issued during the 2025 legislative and presidential elections.
Notably, three senior executives were expelled from the party: Awa Domelo, Fernand Ailé, and Kanga Kwaku Antoine.
Additionally, 25 members received suspensions ranging from 12 to 18 months. Among those suspended for 18 months were Stéphane Kipré and Ouien George Armand.
These disciplinary actions stemmed from the support some cadres provided to dissident candidacies, despite the PPA-CI leadership’s explicit boycott instructions during previous polls.
The situation of Awa Domelo garnered particular attention, as her candidacy had previously been presented as a precautionary measure due to legal uncertainties surrounding Laurent Gbagbo’s eligibility at the time.
For the party’s leadership, this series of sanctions is designed to reinforce internal discipline and clearly define the PPA-CI’s political trajectory in anticipation of future electoral challenges.
This congress unfolds within a period of political realignment in Côte d’Ivoire, where the ruling RHDP continues to demonstrate its organizational might. With this display of authority, the PPA-CI aims to underscore that Laurent Gbagbo remains the pivotal figure around whom the party’s future will coalesce.
