OUATTARA RE-ELECTED IN IVORY COAST AMID OPPOSITION BOYCOTT

President Alassane Ouattara of Ivory Coast has been re-elected for a fourth five-year term after securing nearly 90 percent of the total votes cast in the country’s recent presidential election.

The 83-year-old leader’s victory, however, has sparked controversy, as the poll was marred by the exclusion of major opposition figures, including former President Laurent Gbagbo, who were barred from contesting. “I am grateful for the overwhelming support from the Ivorian people and will continue to work for peace and development,” Ouattara said.

Opposition groups rejected the outcome, with a spokesperson stating, “This election is illegitimate because it silenced critical voices.”

Ouattara’s re-election underscores the growing debate over leadership longevity in Africa, coming shortly after the electoral victory of 92-year-old Paul Biya in Cameroon, who has been in power since 1982.