NextFin news, ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast — On Saturday, October 11, 2025, Ivory Coast security forces arrested at least 237 people during protests in the economic capital, Abidjan, against what activists describe as the country's authoritarian drift ahead of the presidential election scheduled in two weeks.
The arrests were confirmed by the Minister of the Interior and Security in a statement broadcast on national television. Protesters had gathered to demonstrate against President Alassane Ouattara’s bid for a controversial fourth term in office, a move that has sparked unrest and opposition claims of constitutional violations.
According to reports from protesters, security forces used tear gas to disperse crowds and dismantled makeshift roadblocks near the planned starting point of the march. The government justified the arrests as necessary to maintain order during the sensitive pre-election period.
Ivory Coast, the largest economy in Francophone West Africa, has been under President Ouattara’s leadership since 2010. His announcement to run for a fourth term has been met with widespread criticism and accusations of undermining democratic norms, leading to heightened political tensions and protests across the country.
The Interior Ministry emphasized that the detained individuals were involved in illegal protests and that the authorities acted to prevent violence and maintain public safety. The government has faced ongoing challenges balancing security concerns with citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly in the lead-up to the election.
The presidential election is a critical event for Ivory Coast, with the opposition and civil society groups calling for transparent and fair electoral processes. The recent arrests highlight the fragile political climate and the potential for further unrest as the country approaches the vote.
International observers and human rights organizations have expressed concern over the crackdown on protesters and urged all parties to engage in dialogue to ensure a peaceful electoral environment.
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