The making of the RHDP

Conceived as a grand convergence for the political descendants of Félix Houphouët-Boigny, who had long been divided by disputes over his legacy, the Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP) embarked on a remarkable trajectory. Initially formed as a strategic alliance between Alassane Ouattara and Henri Konan Bédié, two prominent figures who set aside their past rivalries to confront a common adversary, Laurent Gbagbo, the RHDP dramatically ascended. Over approximately two decades, this political movement transitioned from the opposition ranks to holding the highest echelons of power, ultimately establishing itself as the preeminent hegemonic force in Côte d’Ivoire’s political landscape. President Alassane Ouattara, also the leader of the RHDP, continues to shape this dominant party’s influence.