Ivory Coast presidential election: Who’s standing and what’s at stake?

Ivorian citizens will vote on October 25 to choose a new president amid controversy over incumbent President Alassane Ouattara's decision to run for a fourth term. The constitution limits presidents to two terms, but Ouattara argues that a 2016 constitutional change "reset" his limit. Ivory Coast is a regional powerhouse with vast swaths of rainforest and pristine beaches, and its economy has seen steady advancement under Ouattara. However, citizens complain about the rising cost of living and unequal playing field for political contenders. Tidjane Thiam, leader of the main opposition Democratic Party of the Ivory Coast, and former president Laurent Gbagbo have been barred from running due to concerns over dual nationality. Over 44,000 police officers and military personnel will maintain calm at the polls, but analysts worry about inevitable election-day violence.

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