The African Union (AU) has pledged its full support for Côte d'Ivoire’s upcoming presidential election scheduled for October, amid growing regional concern over potential instability in the West African nation.

AU envoy Mahamat Saleh Annadif made the announcement following high-level meetings in Abidjan with President Alassane Ouattara and key opposition leaders. Speaking to reporters, Annadif emphasized the broader implications of the vote, warning that unrest in Côte d'Ivoire could have ripple effects across an already fragile region plagued by coups and violence.

“If Ivory Coast sneezes, the whole region could catch a cold,” Annadif remarked, underlining the strategic importance of a peaceful and credible electoral process.

Tensions have been mounting ahead of the election following the exclusion of several prominent opposition figures from the electoral roll. Among those disqualified are PDCI leader Tidjane Thiam, removed due to nationality issues; former President Laurent Gbagbo; his ally Charles Blé Goudé; and exiled former Prime Minister Guillaume Soro, all of whom were barred over prior convictions.

President Ouattara, 83, who has led the country since 2011, remains on the electoral list but has not yet announced whether he will seek a fourth term in office.

Annadif called on all political stakeholders to act responsibly and ensure a peaceful election. “Everyone must play their part,” he said, highlighting the AU’s engagement with a broad spectrum of actors including opposition coalitions, the ruling party, and the Independent Electoral Commission.

The African Union’s involvement underscores its commitment to preserving stability in Côte d'Ivoire, a critical player in the region, as West Africa continues to grapple with complex political and security challenges. (ILKHA)