The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has conducted a pre-election information mission in Côte d’Ivoire, engaging with various political parties, religious and traditional leaders. The mission, led by Theodore Holo, aimed to gather insights and formulate recommendations for the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Alieu Touray.
Holo stated, “We are listening to everyone, and then we will formulate recommendations that will be forwarded to the President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Omar Alieu Touray. He will take the political decisions, in consultation with the current Chair of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS, H.E. Julius Madaa Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone.”
On July 2nd, 2025, meetings were held with leaders from several Ivorian political groups including the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI-RDA), Coalition of the Congress for Democracy and Peace (CAP-CI), Constitutional Council, African People’s Party – Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI), and Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP).
The following day included a courtesy visit to President Alassane Ouattara. Further discussions took place with religious and traditional authorities as well as local journalists at ECOWAS’s headquarters in Côte d’Ivoire. In addition to these meetings, Prof. Holo visited Minister Téné Birahima Ouattara at the Ministry of Defence.
Prof. Holo emphasized that the mission’s objectives are to assess both political conditions and institutional needs to ensure free and peaceful elections. He also advocated for dialogue among political actors to address ongoing challenges that might affect electoral processes.