Key Highlights
- The Ivorian government reacts to accusations made by the African Economic Summit (AES) against the President Alassane Ouattara.
- Athletics Minister Amadou Coulibaly issues a strong response, warning against any attacks on the president’s honor.
- The PDCI-RDA party faces internal crises, with some senior members calling for Thiam’s political leave.
Government Response to Accusations
It was during a routine meeting of the Council of Ministers that Ivorian authorities formally addressed recent accusations made against President Alassane Ouattara. These claims, originating from the African Economic Summit (AES), have sent ripples through diplomatic circles and domestic politics alike.
Ambiguity vs Clarity
Amadou Coulibaly, the government’s spokesperson, revealed that while similar accusations had been made in the past, this time they specifically targeted the president. This development prompted an unprecedented response from Abidjan, which saw several newspapers and media outlets issue stern statements denouncing any attacks on President Ouattara’s honor.
Internal Party Drama
While the government was busy defending its leader, the PDCI-RDA party faced a different kind of crisis. Senior members within the party, many of whom have held their positions for decades, began to question the leadership and called for drastic measures against Thiam, suggesting he be placed on political leave.
International Tensions
The Ivorian government also reacted strongly to recent diplomatic incidents, including an alleged attack on the Niamey airport involving Islamist militants. Coulibaly stated that the Ivorian foreign minister had conveyed a formal protest to both the Niger and Nigerian governments over these accusations.
Conclusion
The situation in Côte d’Ivoire underscores the complex web of international relations and internal party politics. As the government stands firm against external attacks, it faces challenges within its own ranks. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how both domestic and foreign pressures shape Ivorian politics moving forward.
