The Plateforme panafricaine des femmes et des jeunes pour la paix, la démocratie et la gouvernance (2Pfj) is advocating for a new era of participatory and inclusive political dialogue in Côte d’Ivoire to drive meaningful electoral reforms. In an official statement released on July 21, 2026, the organization underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address the nation’s socio-political challenges, which have left lasting scars on the population.
The 2Pfj emphasizes that electoral governance reforms are not merely administrative adjustments but foundational pillars for the Republic and its democratic future. A superficial dialogue, they argue, would fail to resolve the deep-seated issues plaguing the electoral system. Instead, the platform calls for a structured negotiation framework that engages all national stakeholders—political parties, civil society, and marginalized groups—to foster trust and transparency.
Building consensus for a fair electoral system
The organization proposes the creation of parity-based technical commissions, comprising representatives from the government, opposition, and civil society. These bodies would collaboratively define the mandates, financial autonomy, and independence of the proposed electoral management institutions—or any alternative institutional model deemed necessary. The goal is to ensure these bodies operate with credibility and impartiality, thereby restoring public confidence in the electoral process.
Key demands for national reconciliation
The 2Pfj’s recommendations extend beyond institutional reforms. The platform urges the government to:
- Release individuals detained on politically motivated grounds to foster an environment conducive to dialogue.
- Facilitate the safe return of exiled citizens to encourage broader participation in the reform process.
- Ensure significant representation of women and youth organizations in the new electoral bodies to promote inclusive governance and citizen oversight.
Highlighting Côte d’Ivoire’s resilience in overcoming past crises, the 2Pfj asserts that the current moment presents an opportunity to unite the nation around a shared vision of stability, peace, and prosperity. Electoral reform, they argue, is not just a technical issue but a catalyst for national unity.
Government’s role in shaping the future
The call for dialogue comes amid recent government initiatives to reform the electoral system. On June 22, 2026, Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé convened an expanded working session with political parties and civil society organizations. While presented as an informational gathering, the meeting laid the groundwork for broader consultations aimed at identifying sustainable solutions to electoral challenges.
The 2Pfj’s proposals align with the need for a consensus-driven approach, where the voices of all Ivoirians—regardless of political affiliation or social background—are heard and integrated into the reform agenda. By prioritizing inclusivity, the platform believes Côte d’Ivoire can build an electoral system that reflects the aspirations of its people and upholds democratic values.
