Amid growing concerns over electoral governance in Côte d’Ivoire following the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI), the Platform of 37 Civil Society Organizations (PEC-CI) has outlined a bold reform agenda and urged an immediate political dialogue.
During a high-profile press conference in Abidjan on May 14, 2026, PEC-CI President Ebrin Yao Rémi called for direct and inclusive negotiations with key opposition figures, including former President Laurent Gbagbo and politician Tidjane Thiam. The civil society coalition stressed that such a dialogue is crucial to ease political tensions and build a unified electoral framework that reflects the nation’s diverse interests.
The platform emphasized that Côte d’Ivoire’s stability hinges on the ability of political actors to engage in honest, forward-looking discussions. In a climate of deep mistrust toward electoral institutions, PEC-CI insists that the national interest must take precedence over partisan divisions.
Proposals for a New Electoral Model
PEC-CI has proposed a sweeping overhaul of the electoral system. Its central recommendation is the creation of an entirely new, independent electoral body composed exclusively of civil society representatives. This entity would be selected through an open, transparent recruitment process aimed at ensuring competence, neutrality, and public credibility.
To further guarantee its autonomy, the platform advocates for a dedicated, self-managed budget approved by the National Assembly. This financial independence, PEC-CI argues, would shield the institution from political interference and help restore public confidence in the electoral process.
The coalition criticized the abrupt dissolution of the CEI, noting it occurred without prior consultation with opposition leaders or key civil society groups. Such a unilateral decision, PEC-CI warns, risks exacerbating political instability as the country approaches critical electoral deadlines.
While acknowledging the CEI’s origins as a negotiated political compromise, the platform highlights its failures—violent post-election clashes, disputed results, and tragic loss of life—which underscore the urgent need for a new approach. PEC-CI believes that only a transparent, citizen-led electoral authority can prevent future crises and foster national reconciliation.
“A reformed electoral system is not a luxury—it is a necessity to heal our democracy and protect the voices of all Ivorians,” stated Ebrin Yao Rémi during the press conference.
In closing, the coalition urged all political stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and cooperation. It views comprehensive electoral reform as the cornerstone of restoring trust between government institutions, political parties, and citizens alike.
