In Abidjan, slam poet Placide Konan is using his art to criticize President Alassane Ouattara’s run for a fourth term in Saturday’s election. The 33-year-old performer says his poetry reflects public frustration over economic hardship and inequality.
Despite Côte d’Ivoire’s status as a leading cocoa producer and regional economic hub, poverty still affects 37.5% of citizens. Konan laments that living comfortably in the capital now feels like a matter of luck or “magic.” Analysts predict Ouattara, 83, will likely secure another victory after ruling since 2011.
Opposition figures, including former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam, have been barred from contesting. A court disqualified Thiam over dual nationality, which he denied and later renounced. The election is seen as a major test for Côte d’Ivoire’s democracy amid rising youth discontent.
About The Author
