Internal party dispute leads to exclusion of prominent PPA-CI figures

The Parti des peuples africains-Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI), led by former Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo, has barred several high-ranking party officials and activists from attending its inaugural ordinary congress scheduled for May 14-15, 2026 in Abidjan. The decision follows their refusal to comply with the party’s directive to abstain from the October 2025 presidential election and the December 2025 legislative elections.

Disciplinary measures take effect ahead of key party gathering

The move underscores deepening divisions within the PPA-CI, where internal dissent has prompted the initiation of formal disciplinary proceedings against those who defied leadership decisions. A statement released by the party clarified that individuals under investigation—including Don Mello, Stéphane Kipré, Dali Arthur, and Armand Ouégnin, among others—are prohibited from participating in the upcoming congress. The gathering aims to strengthen party cohesion and revitalize grassroots support.

Congress set to address leadership directives and future strategy

The two-day event, slated to take place at the Palais de la Culture in Abidjan, will serve as a platform to consolidate the party’s position and chart its path forward. However, the exclusion of key figures highlights the challenges facing the PPA-CI in maintaining unity amid divergent viewpoints on electoral participation. The disciplinary actions reflect the leadership’s commitment to enforcing internal discipline while navigating the complexities of Ivorian political dynamics.

By Maimouna Kaboré — Editor-in-Chief