Félix Houphouët-Boigny

Félix Houphouët-Boigny was a pivotal figure in Ivorian and French colonial history. He is most notably known as the Ivorian deputy who spearheaded the 1946 law abolishing forced labor in French colonies. This marked a significant turning point in the history of the French colonial empire, although the complete eradication of these practices took several years. Houphouët-Boigny also founded the Parti Démocratique de Côte d'Ivoire (PDCI) on April 8, 1946. He remains newsworthy as the PDCI recently celebrated its 80th anniversary. The party, currently the main opposition in Côte d'Ivoire, is facing a crisis and is looking to revitalize itself through its leader, Tidjane Thiam. The PDCI is currently advocating for Thiam's safe return to Abidjan from France, highlighting Houphouët-Boigny's enduring legacy and the continued relevance of the party he founded in Ivorian politics.