Civil society groups in Côte d’Ivoire are pushing for a sweeping overhaul of the electoral system, following the recent dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). The 37-member Platform of Civil Society Organizations (PEC-CI) outlined its proposals during a high-profile press conference in Abidjan on May 14, 2026.

Led by President Ebrin Yao Rémi, the coalition is calling for direct and inclusive political dialogue with key opposition figures, including Laurent Gbagbo and Tidjane Thiam. The group argues that such negotiations are critical to easing political tensions and fostering a consensus-driven electoral framework before upcoming polls.

The PEC-CI emphasizes that national stability hinges on the ability of political leaders to engage in honest discussions, particularly amid ongoing disputes over election management. Their proposals focus on two main pillars: institutional reform and political reconciliation.

Rebuilding trust in electoral institutions

The civil society platform is advocating for a complete restructuring of the electoral body. Their recommendations include:

• Exclusive oversight by civil society: The new electoral authority should be composed solely of civil society representatives, excluding direct participation from political parties to ensure neutrality.
• Transparent selection process: Members should be chosen through an open call for applications, prioritizing competence, integrity, and professionalism.
• Financial autonomy: The body must operate with its own budget, approved by the National Assembly, to safeguard its independence from political interference.

The PEC-CI points to past election-related violence, contested results, and loss of life as evidence of the current system’s failures. While acknowledging that the CEI was originally formed through political compromises, the group criticizes its dissolution as a unilateral decision that lacked prior consultation with opposition leaders and civil society.

Restoring confidence ahead of elections

In their view, the absence of broad-based dialogue risks deepening political divisions as the country approaches critical electoral deadlines. The platform stresses that a reformed electoral system, built on transparency and inclusivity, is essential to rebuilding trust between institutions, political actors, and citizens.

As discussions on the future of Côte d’Ivoire’s electoral governance intensify, the PEC-CI’s proposals are gaining attention as a potential roadmap for stabilizing the political landscape and ensuring credible elections.