In a stunning turn of events that could reshape Ivory Coast’s political landscape ahead of the 2025 elections, Tidjane Thiam has stepped down as president of the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI), citing what he described as a sustained campaign of judicial harassment.
The former international banker, who was elected party leader in December 2023, made the announcement in a video statement on Sunday, just one day before the PDCI’s scheduled meeting to appoint an interim leader.
Legal Challenges Mount Against Thiam
Thiam’s resignation follows months of intense legal scrutiny and political maneuvering aimed at disqualifying him from contesting the presidency. A PDCI member had filed a court challenge questioning the legality of his election as party leader, casting a shadow over his authority within the party.
“I have always believed in the rule of law, but what we are witnessing is an abuse of legal procedures to achieve political ends,” Thiam stated in his address. “This is not just an attack on me as an individual, but on the principles of democracy and justice.”
Thiam further alleged that elements within the political establishment had “instrumentalized the judiciary” in an orchestrated effort to derail his leadership and political aspirations.
Voter Register Controversy
Just weeks earlier, a magistrate in Abidjan cited nationality concerns as grounds for removing Thiam from the national voter register, a move that effectively ended his chances of running for president in 2025.
The court ruling was based on Ivory Coast’s strict nationality laws, which prohibit individuals with foreign citizenship from contesting presidential elections unless they have officially renounced their second nationality. Although Thiam had previously held French citizenship, he confirmed that he renounced it in order to fully align with Ivorian legal requirements.
“I have complied with every legal requirement. Yet, despite this, attempts continue to exclude me from participating in the political process,” Thiam asserted in his statement.
The voter register controversy ignited heated debate in the country, with supporters arguing that the ruling was politically motivated and intended to sideline a rising contender capable of challenging the ruling party’s grip on power.
Political Implications
Thiam’s exit from the PDCI leadership is expected to trigger a power struggle within one of Ivory Coast’s most influential opposition parties. The PDCI, once led by the late Félix Houphouët-Boigny, has played a pivotal role in the country’s political evolution. However, in recent years, internal divisions and leadership crises have weakened its national standing.
On Monday, PDCI officials convened in Abidjan to discuss the appointment of an interim president who will lead the party through this turbulent period. Party spokesperson Eugène Kacou confirmed that consultations were ongoing.
“The priority now is to maintain party unity and stability. The executive committee is engaging with key stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition,” Kacou told reporters.
A Career Marred by Political Headwinds
Tidjane Thiam rose to global prominence as a banker and former CEO of Credit Suisse before entering Ivorian politics with widespread support from youth, technocrats, and parts of the diaspora. His return to Ivory Coast in 2023 was seen by many as a breath of fresh air—a break from the old guard of politics.
Yet, his outsider status also made him a target. Critics within the political establishment have questioned his Ivorian identity and political loyalty, even though Thiam has always maintained strong ties to his homeland and family legacy.
“I returned to serve my country with integrity and vision,” Thiam emphasized. “But the hostility I’ve encountered only confirms the depth of resistance to change within certain circles.”
Despite his resignation, Thiam said he remains committed to the values of democracy, transparency, and national unity. “My departure from the PDCI leadership does not mark the end of my commitment to Ivory Coast. I will continue to serve in any capacity that promotes the common good,” he affirmed.
Reactions from the Political Class
Political reactions to Thiam’s resignation have been swift and varied. Supporters have expressed outrage, accusing the ruling government of manipulating judicial institutions to eliminate strong opposition voices.
“This is nothing short of political sabotage,” said Antoine Gnahoré, a youth leader within the PDCI. “Thiam was a threat because he represents a new way of thinking, and that scares the old elite.”
Meanwhile, ruling party officials have denied any involvement in the legal proceedings, insisting that the judiciary operates independently.
“We respect the independence of the courts,” a spokesperson for the government said in a brief statement on Monday. “Mr. Thiam’s legal issues are personal and have no connection to the executive branch.”
What’s Next for PDCI and Thiam?
As the PDCI scrambles to fill the leadership vacuum, analysts warn that the party risks further fragmentation if unity is not restored quickly. With the 2025 presidential elections drawing nearer, a strong, cohesive opposition will be crucial to mounting a credible challenge against the ruling RHDP coalition led by President Alassane Ouattara.
For Thiam, the road ahead remains uncertain. While he has vowed to stay engaged in national affairs, legal obstacles may continue to hinder any immediate political ambitions.
Still, many Ivorian citizens, especially the youth, continue to view Thiam as a symbol of hope and reform. His departure from leadership may mark the end of one chapter, but it could also signal the beginning of a broader movement for change.
