The joint ECOWAS-AU election observation mission has described Côte d’Ivoire’s 25 October 2025 presidential election as generally peaceful but marred by logistical shortcomings, limited inclusivity, and restricted candidate competition, according to the mission’s preliminary report.
Led by former Nigerian Vice‑President Oluyemi Osinbajo, the mission deployed 251 observers from 28 African nations. According to the ECOWAS preliminary report, polling day was calm and orderly, with citizens exercising their civic duty, but many polling stations opened late, ballot secrecy was compromised in some areas, and access for persons with disabilities was inadequate. Observers noted that approximately one-third of polling stations experienced delays of up to an hour due to late arrival of materials or insufficient staffing.
The report also highlighted political concerns, pointing to the exclusion of prominent opposition figures and strict sponsorship requirements that limited the competitiveness of the election. Only five candidates were cleared to run. The mission urged Ivorian authorities to strengthen logistical planning, improve training for polling staff, expand access for marginalized voters, and reform campaign regulations to ensure a more inclusive electoral process.
According to Reuters, provisional results show incumbent President Alassane Ouattara securing approximately 89.77 % of the vote, with voter turnout estimated at around 50%. Former Commerce Minister Jean‑Louis Billon, who came second, conceded defeat, acknowledging Ouattara’s lead.
Al Jazeera also reports that the barring of major opposition figures, including former President Laurent Gbagbo and financier Tidjane Thiam, contributed to concerns over the election’s competitiveness. Analysts say that the absence of high-profile challengers, combined with low urban turnout, may undermine perceptions of democratic legitimacy, despite the peaceful conduct on election day.
The ECOWAS preliminary report also highlighted isolated security incidents, including a temporary disruption at a polling station by armed individuals, highlight remaining risks, though these were quickly contained by security forces. The mission emphasised that addressing such shortcomings, including unequal candidate representation at polling stations, is essential for fostering public confidence in future elections.
Regional observers say the outcome will influence Côte d’Ivoire’s engagement with West African partners and the wider Sahel region, especially on security cooperation.
The observation mission’s findings arrive as authorities prepare to officially validate the results. The ECOWAS‑AU mission will continue monitoring reactions from political stakeholders and encourage all parties to resolve disputes through legal channels. According to the ECOWAS report, these steps are critical to consolidating democracy and ensuring future elections are more transparent and inclusive.
