Controversy Surrounds Ouattara's Bid for Fourth Term

Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara declared his intention to seek a fourth term, sparking national and regional debate. His decision comes after amending the constitution to remove term limits, amid ongoing controversies and political tensions in West Africa, exacerbated by objections to his candidacy.

In a significant political move, Ivory Coast's President Alassane Ouattara announced his candidacy for a fourth consecutive term. The decision, revealed during a televised speech, comes weeks ahead of the country's October elections.

Ouattara, who amended the constitution to discard presidential term limits, has faced intense scrutiny. Although he initially declared his intention not to run post-2020 elections, the unexpected death of his chosen successor, Amadou Gon Coulibaly, altered his plans.

The announcement comes amid heightened political tensions, with rivals like Tidjane Thiam excluded from the race under controversial court rulings, adding to the ongoing crisis of legitimacy in West Africa's governance landscape.

(With inputs from agencies.)