The Coalition for a Peaceful Alternation aims to advocate reforms in the electoral system and challenge the dominance of the ruling party.
Notable parties involved include the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI), the country’s oldest political party, the Movement of Capable Generations (MGC) led by former First Lady, Simone Gbagbo, and Charles Blé Goudé’s Young Patriots of Ivory Coast, COJEP.
Simone Gbagbo, speaking on behalf of the alliance, stated, “For its part, our coalition decided today to take another step forward in its project to strengthen the grouping of the opposition by formalising this structure.”
However, one significant party, that of former president Laurent Gbagbo, is noticeably absent from the new alliance.
With the opposition now divided into three blocs, there is a concern that votes might be split among them, which could work in favor of the ruling party. Unless, of course, the new coalition can garner support beyond its membership.
Political analyst, Christophe Koffi, believes that if the election proceeds to a second round, President Alassane Ouattara’s party might face challenges.
“Unlike in Cameroon, the political parties have formed a bloc, and the electorate will rally greatly around this bloc,” Koffi said.
“If they manage to force the party in power to a second round, there will be a consolidation of opposition votes around the leading candidate, which could unsettle the ruling party.”
Koffi emphasized, “This coalition should not be underestimated.”
As the campaign is expected to be intense, it remains to be seen whether the newly formed alliance will make an impact in the October elections.
