Côte d’Ivoire embarks on electoral reform to enhance democratic governance

Abidjan, June 30, 2026 — A coalition of political parties in Côte d’Ivoire has praised the government’s commitment to electoral governance reform, highlighting its responsiveness to long-standing demands from political actors and civil society organizations.

In a joint statement delivered by spokesperson Zadi Djédjé, the Groupement Alliance des Ivoiriens pour la démocratie (AID) and the Union des masses populaires pour la paix (UMPP) expressed their approval following an informational session held on June 22 at the Prime Minister’s Office. The meeting, presided over by Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé, focused on reforms to the electoral body.

The coalition underscored that the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI)—whose members’ terms had expired—and the announcement of a restructured electoral governance framework mark a significant milestone in addressing years of advocacy by political parties and civil society.

The reforms are seen as a decisive step toward strengthening election transparency, rebuilding political trust, and averting pre- and post-election tensions. The AID-UMPP coalition commended the CEI’s past contributions while welcoming the government’s decision to establish a tripartite system, with distinct entities responsible for logistical execution, vote tabulation, and overall electoral oversight.

The new structure is grounded in principles of professionalism, impartiality, transparency, and efficiency, which the coalition believes will fortify institutional stability and enhance the credibility of future elections. Emphasizing the need for collective support, the AID-UMPP urged political parties, civil society leaders, and electoral stakeholders to collaborate in implementing the reforms with a sense of responsibility, patriotism, and constructive dialogue.

The coalition also urged continued government efforts to uphold national cohesion and stability, stressing that trust in state institutions remains pivotal for democratic consolidation and peace in Côte d’Ivoire.