Ivory Coast Court Bars Former Credit Suisse CEO from Presidential Ballot Ahead of Election
In a politically charged decision that is drawing both national and international attention, the Constitutional Council of Ivory Coast has officially removed Tidjane Thiam — the former CEO of Credit Suisse — from the country’s upcoming presidential ballot. The ruling, announced late Monday, effectively disqualifies one of the most high-profile opposition figures from participating in the 2025 election.
Thiam, a respected Ivorian economist and former international banking executive, had launched his presidential bid earlier this year, signaling a return to politics after his tenure at the helm of Credit Suisse. His candidacy was seen by many as a potential game-changer in a race that has largely been dominated by the long-standing political elite.
The Constitutional Council, however, ruled that Thiam does not meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the country’s electoral code. While specific details were not fully disclosed in the ruling, sources close to the court suggest that the disqualification stems from questions about his residency status and administrative compliance.
In a statement released shortly after the decision, Thiam expressed deep disappointment, calling the court’s action politically motivated. “This is not just an attack on my candidacy — it is an attack on the democratic aspirations of the Ivorian people,” he said. “We will explore all legal and constitutional avenues to challenge this unjust ruling.”
Thiam’s removal from the ballot is expected to reshape the dynamics of the presidential race, which is scheduled for later this year. His campaign had generated significant excitement, particularly among youth voters and members of the Ivorian diaspora, who viewed him as a fresh alternative to establishment candidates.
Political analysts warn that the court’s decision could heighten political tensions in the West African nation, where past elections have been marred by unrest and controversy. Ivory Coast has been striving to maintain political stability following a period of civil conflict in the early 2000s.
Several opposition parties have already criticized the ruling, accusing the government of using judicial mechanisms to silence credible challengers. International observers, including representatives from the African Union and ECOWAS, are reportedly monitoring the situation closely to ensure the transparency and fairness of the upcoming electoral process.
Despite the legal setback, Thiam’s supporters remain vocal and active, organizing rallies and online campaigns to protest the court’s decision and demand broader electoral reforms.
As the country edges closer to a pivotal election, all eyes will now be on how the ruling party and opposition groups navigate the political landscape in the wake of this high-profile disqualification.
Source : Swifteradio.com
