Tidjane Thiam Renounces French Citizenship to Compete in Ivorian Election
Tidjane Thiam has renounced his French citizenship to run for president of Ivory Coast in October 2025. Leader of the PDCI party, Thiam expressed his commitment to improving living conditions in the country. His candidacy could complicate President Ouattara’s bid for a fourth term amid anticipated opposition challenges.
Tidjane Thiam, the former CEO of Credit Suisse, has renounced his French citizenship to qualify for the presidential election in Ivory Coast scheduled for October 2025. This decision aligns with the conditions set by Ivorian law for presidential candidates, which mandates exclusive Ivorian nationality. Thiam, who became the leader of the PDCI party in 2023, is expected to be a prominent contender in the election.
In a recent Facebook video, Thiam announced his decision, emphasizing his dedication to enhancing living conditions in Ivory Coast: “I hereby renew my commitment to working for real change in Ivory Coast, so that the living conditions of Ivorians improve. That’s what we’re fighting for.” His previous political experience includes serving as a minister under former President Henri Konan Bedie.
Thiam’s political journey includes a significant career abroad after a military coup in 1999 forced him to leave Ivory Coast. He held positions in several major firms before returning to engage with the PDCI, the party founded by the first president of Ivory Coast. His return to the political arena coincides with President Alassane Ouattara’s signals of seeking a fourth term, which may lead to tensions with opposition parties.
Tidjane Thiam’s recent decision to renounce his French citizenship highlights a critical legal requirement for presidential candidates in Ivory Coast, ensuring candidates hold exclusive Ivorian nationality. As a seasoned politician and former minister, Thiam’s decision to lead the PDCI showcases his ambitions to drive change in the country. This move comes at a time of potential political unrest, as current President Ouattara considers another election run amid opposition scrutiny.
Tidjane Thiam aims to become a presidential candidate in Ivory Coast’s forthcoming election by renouncing his French citizenship. As PDCI’s leader, he hopes to advocate for positive change within the country. Thiam’s political re-emergence occurs against a backdrop of a possible contentious re-election campaign for President Ouattara, indicating a potentially dynamic political landscape ahead.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
