Ouattara's Fourth Term: Ivory Coast at a Democratic Crossroads

Ivory Coast's President Alassane Ouattara has announced his intention to run for a controversial fourth term, drawing concerns about a return to autocratic leadership in a region already grappling with democratic challenges. His candidacy underscores a larger regional pattern of leaders resisting democratic norms.

Ouattara, citing economic and security challenges, justifies his run despite constitutional controversies. The opposition has been significantly weakened, with key figures disqualified or arrested, leading analysts to worry about an era of one-man rule returning to the forefront.

Regionally, power retention tactics such as constitutional changes and manipulated elections have mirrored military coups, complicating democratic integrity across West and Central Africa. This political climate has shifted alliances, with some nations seeking new partnerships beyond traditional Western allies.

(With inputs from agencies.)