Laurent Gbagbo maintains his grip on the PPA-CI leadership in Côte d’Ivoire

Un partisan de Laurent Gbagbo manifeste dans les rues d’Abidjan, le 16 août 2025.

The outcome was never in question for those within the inner circles of the Parti des peuples africains – Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI). As early as mid-May, party officials were already certain that their founding figure would be reinstated at the helm. The atmosphere was one of collective celebration, with members expressing total confidence in the leadership transition.

The actual voting process unfolded at the Palais de la Culture in Treichville, where the decision was finalized through a resounding round of acclamations. The gathering served more as a coronation than a contest, as there were no other challengers seeking the position.

A singular path for the former head of state

Despite being the focal point of the entire congress, Laurent Gbagbo was notably missing from the proceedings during the initial day of the event. His absence, however, did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm of the delegates or the certainty of his victory.

By securing his role once again, the former president reinforces his status as the undisputed master of the PPA-CI. The political landscape within the party remains firmly centered around his persona, as the movement looks toward its future under his continued guidance.