Abidjan, 1 June 2026 – The celebration of Mother’s Day in Aboisso, featuring the presence of former First Ladies Henriette Bédié and Simone Gbagbo alongside current First Lady Dominique Ouattara, dominated newspaper headlines on Monday.
The 81st birthday of former President Laurent Gbagbo also captured significant media attention, while other outlets focused on national politics, PDCI-RDA activities, and economic developments.
Mother’s Day ceremony sparks unity message from leading figures
Coverage of Mother’s Day was overwhelmingly positive, with several publications highlighting the historic gathering. Notre Voie framed the event as “reuniting First Ladies in Aboisso: a shining example,” while L’Inter emphasized the strong message of unity with its headline: “Henriette Bédié and Simone Gbagbo stand beside Dominique Ouattara: a powerful signal in Aboisso.”
Le Matin praised the occasion as a moment where “First Ladies Ouattara, Bédié, and Gbagbo elevate social cohesion,” while Le Patriote reported Dominique Ouattara’s tribute to women as “the silent builders of our society,” alongside tributes paid to the former First Ladies. L’Expression mirrored this sentiment with its front-page headline: “Dominique Ouattara, Henriette Bédié, and Simone Gbagbo celebrate together,” followed by an in-depth look at how these women of influence were honored.
Laurent Gbagbo’s 81st birthday draws significant media focus
Former President Laurent Gbagbo’s milestone birthday received extensive coverage. Le Temps marked the occasion with the headline “President Laurent Gbagbo blows out 81 candles,” while L’Avenir reflected on his decades-long political journey with “81 years, 40 years in politics: Laurent Gbagbo, alas!” Notre Voie hailed him as “the extraordinary survivor of Ivorian politics,” celebrating his resilience on this special day.
Other key stories shaping the news cycle
Beyond these events, Le Nouveau Réveil covered the 80th anniversary of the PDCI-RDA, noting a “massive turnout in the eastern region for Thiam.” On the economic front, L’Expression featured a headline proclaiming the BCEAO as the “official provider of Prime Ministers,” while L’Essor scrutinized government figures with its critical piece: “Why TBO, Anne Oulotto, and Dimba stir controversy.”
