Ivory Coast’s presidential candidates held their final rallies Thursday as campaigning officially concluded ahead of Saturday’s national vote.
Incumbent President Alassane Ouattara seeks a fourth term, potentially extending his nearly two-decade rule over the cocoa-rich West African nation.
Ouattara, 83, addressed thousands of supporters in central Abidjan, declaring, “The dogs are barking but the caravan has moved already,” from a city-overlooking stage.
Eight-point-seven million voters are registered, while four weakened opposition parties challenge the president amid a tense political climate and high stakes.
Former first lady Simone Gbagbo rallied in Aboisso, eastern Ivory Coast, urging support, while former commerce minister Jean-Louis Billon held his final event in Bouake.
Analysts note the opposition’s limited chances, after two major challengers, ex-CEO Tidjane Thiam and former President Laurent Gbagbo, were disqualified from the ballot.
The disqualifications sparked nationwide protests, leaving hundreds arrested and dozens imprisoned, deepening tensions ahead of a vote historically marked by violence.
Abidjan’s vibrant streets slowed, with many shops closed in fear of unrest, while the city remained dotted with Ouattara’s campaign posters and scarce opposition signage.
Supporters expressed confidence in the president, with 25-year-old Ange Ouattara asserting, “Ouattara will win in the first round,” dismissing rivals as token challengers.
The nation heads to the polls Saturday, poised for a decisive election that will determine the political trajectory of Ivory Coast for years.