Côte d’Ivoire’s Alassane Ouattara was recently sworn in for a fourth presidential term following an October election he won with 89% of the vote. The electoral process, however, was marred by numerous challenges, including low voter turnout. It excluded major opposition figures, and post-vote violence left at least 11 dead, with over 1,650 arrests. In his inauguration address, Ouattara framed his victory as a mandate for continued stability and development. The inauguration was attended by 11 African presidents, highlighting regional engagement. First elected in 2010, Ouattara has overseen economic growth in the cocoa-exporting nation but faces criticism for consolidating power and raising concerns over democratic backsliding. Meanwhile, US officials characterized the country as a politically stable and fast-growing partner, despite the domestic tensions.
AP
