Simone Gbagbo Seeks Presidential Comeback in Ivory Coast Election

In a significant political move, Simone Ehivet Gbagbo is campaigning to return to the presidential palace in Ivory Coast, marking an ambitious comeback after years of tumult. The 76-year-old is running in the presidential election scheduled for March 2, 2024, under the banner of the Movement of Skilled Generations party. She faces a challenging race against four other candidates, including the current president, Alassane Ouattara, who is vying for a fourth term.

Gbagbo, often referred to as the “iron lady,” has a controversial history in Ivorian politics. As first lady from 2000 to 2010, she was an influential figure during her husband Laurent Gbagbo’s presidency. His rule was marred by civil strife and electoral disputes, particularly following the 2010 election when he refused to concede defeat to Ouattara. The ensuing violence resulted in over 3,000 deaths and led to both Gbagbos being arrested by French and United Nations forces in 2011.

Reflecting on her candidacy, Gbagbo has expressed confidence in her ability to become Ivory Coast’s first female president. During a recent campaign event in Guibéroua, she stated, “I think this idea of a female president is much less shocking than it was 20 years ago.” She emphasized that her candidacy represents more than just her personal ambition, suggesting that Ivorians are ready for a woman in leadership.

Political Background and Challenges

Simone Gbagbo’s political journey has been fraught with challenges. Following the violent events of 2010-2011, she was charged with “crimes against humanity” by the International Criminal Court. Although this warrant was lifted in 2021, she faced a 20-year prison sentence in 2015 for undermining state security. She received amnesty in 2018, allowing her to re-enter the political arena.

The recent divorce from Laurent Gbagbo in 2023 marked the end of a long-standing political alliance that had defined their marriage. Unlike her ex-husband, who was barred from contesting, Simone is one of the five candidates cleared to run in the upcoming election. Analysts note that she is part of an opposition that appears to be weak, particularly after electoral authorities disqualified several prominent rivals.

Despite her tumultuous past, Gbagbo is banking on her long-standing engagement in Ivorian politics. She has a history of advocating for multiparty democracy since the 1970s and was a notable figure in her husband’s administration. However, her past has not been without scrutiny; she has been linked to controversial actions during her husband’s presidency, which she denies.

Campaign Promises and Public Sentiment

In her current campaign, Gbagbo has focused on issues such as poverty alleviation and national reconciliation. With significant inequality persisting in Ivory Coast, she has proposed social welfare programs aimed at addressing these challenges. Gbagbo acknowledges the lingering wounds from the civil conflict and emphasizes the need for healing within the nation.

She has also voiced concerns about increasing tensions and a perceived clampdown on the opposition in the lead-up to the election. “Ivorians are angry and frustrated, and rightly so,” she said, urging voters to turn out en masse to express their discontent with the current administration.

As the elections draw near, Gbagbo’s determination to reclaim a central role in Ivorian politics is evident. Her campaign reflects a complex history of power, resilience, and ambition, setting the stage for a potentially pivotal moment in the nation’s history.