Ivorians protest exclusion of four main opposition candidates from the October presidential election

Protests erupted in Ivory Coast on Saturday, August 2, following the exclusion of several opposition figures from the upcoming October election. Demonstrators called for an inclusive vote, defying court rulings that upheld the disqualifications.

The African People's Party (PPA-CI), to which former President Laurent Gbagbo belonged, claims six of its members were detained in what it described as a wave of political repression and taken to an undisclosed location. The Interior Ministry confirmed at least 11 arrests in connection with the protests in Abidjan's Yopougon district.

Many of the disqualified leaders are considered critical rivals to incumbent President Alassane Ouattara. Ivory Coast is expected to hold its presidential election on October 25.

President Ouattara will be defending his seat for a fourth term and is speculated to win in light of a weakened opposition. Among the disqualified candidates is Tidjane Thiam of the main opposition Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI), whose name was struck out on claims of dual nationality. Other key candidates not included are the former president Laurent Gbagbo, his close associate Charles Ble Goude and exiled former Prime Minister Guillaume Soro.

Opposition parties have accused President Ouattara of eliminating his main rivals to narrow competition in an election they deem a sham. The 83-year-old president ended long-standing speculation about his candidacy in late July, announcing he would seek another term.

In 2016, he changed the constitutional term limit to allow him to run again in 2020, a move criticized by the opposition, which later culminated in boycotting the polls. Candidates have until the end of August to submit their names before elections are held on October 25.