“Since December 2010, Côte d’Ivoire has witnessed the recurrence of a political crisis which was triggered by disputed presidential elections. This political crisis was a brutal assault on the
country’s hopes and aspirations for peace. It also challenged its governance institutions in terms of their efficacy and adherence to the rule of law. In addition, it created two centres of power, as the country’s two most highly placed politicians, Laurent Gbagbo and Allasane Ouattara, each declared electoral victory. In fact, the electoral quagmire resulted in the swearing in of both candidates as president in separate ceremonies. This policy brief seeks to examine the impact of the electoral crisis on Côte d’Ivoire’s political and economic stability and the lessons that could be drawn from the crisis and its resolution. Furthermore, it explores links between the violence and the challenges lying ahead after the fall of Gbagbo’s regime. Included in the analysis
is a background to the country’s recent crisis, relating to the 2003 Accords which paved the way for the Government of National Unity.”
