Following the dissolution of Côte d’Ivoire’s Independent Electoral Commission (CEI), civil society organizations are advocating for a sweeping reform of the country’s electoral governance. In a press briefing held in Abidjan on May 14, the Platform of 37 Organizations, NGOs, Associations and Movements (PEC-CI) outlined its concerns and recommendations for a more transparent electoral process.

The PEC-CI, led by its president Ebrin Yao Rémi, urged authorities to initiate direct and inclusive political dialogue with key opposition figures, including Laurent Gbagbo and Tidjane Thiam. The platform emphasized that such engagement is crucial to defuse political tensions and foster consensus on electoral frameworks.

Civil society demands decisive electoral reforms

The collective argues that Côte d’Ivoire’s stability hinges on the ability of political stakeholders to engage in honest discussions, prioritizing the nation’s collective interests over partisan divides. Their proposals include a complete restructuring of the electoral system, with the new body exclusively managed by civil society actors to ensure neutrality.

The PEC-CI recommends that the reformed electoral institution be formed through an open call for candidates, selecting members based on competence, independence, and transparency. To further bolster credibility, the platform suggests granting this new entity autonomous budgetary control, subject to parliamentary approval.

Criticism of past electoral processes

The civil society coalition points to recurring issues in previous elections—violence, disputed results, and tragic loss of life—as evidence of the current system’s failures. They contend that the CEI, despite being a political compromise, lacked the independence needed to prevent electoral disputes.

The PEC-CI also expressed concern over the abrupt dissolution of the CEI without prior consultation with opposition groups and key civil society actors. They warn that this lack of collaboration could exacerbate political instability ahead of upcoming elections.

A call for inclusive and transparent elections

In closing, the PEC-CI stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive and consensual electoral reform in Côte d’Ivoire. They view this as essential to rebuilding trust between institutions, political actors, and citizens, ensuring credible and peaceful elections.