The Democratic Party of Côte d'Ivoire (PDCI-RDA) has expressed concern over the recent convocations of six of its members by the Anti-Terrorist Section of the Abidjan court. The party's Secretary General, Yapo Calice, read a statement on Saturday, October 17, 2026, condemning the move as a "grave political signal." The six members, including Mandodja M'Bia Roger and Ezaley Philippe, are accused of being involved in the violence that occurred during the October 2025 presidential election.
According to the PDCI-RDA, the convocations are part of a larger pattern of pressure on opposition parties. The party notes that similar convocations were issued to members of the PPA-CI party, another major opposition group. The PDCI-RDA believes that these actions are aimed at silencing dissenting voices and undermining the country's democratic institutions. The party has called for an end to what it sees as the politicization of justice.
The PDCI-RDA has reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue and peace, citing the legacy of Côte d'Ivoire's founding father, Félix Houphouët Boigny. The party rejects any association with terrorist or criminal organizations and insists that expressing dissent should not be considered a threat to the state. The PDCI-RDA also emphasized its support for an independent and impartial judiciary.
The party has expressed solidarity with the affected members and their families, as well as with other politicians who have been targeted. The PDCI-RDA is demanding an end to the instrumentalization of justice for political purposes and the abandonment of proceedings that are not based on concrete evidence. The party also wants to ensure that the rights of those summoned are respected, including the right to a fair trial.
The PDCI-RDA has called for immediate measures to ease tensions, including the release of individuals detained for peacefully exercising their political rights and the creation of conditions for the safe return of exiled politicians. The party is also seeking a national dialogue on public freedoms, trust between stakeholders, and electoral guarantees.
The PDCI-RDA has urged national human rights institutions, diplomatic representations, and international organizations to closely monitor the situation and take concrete steps to promote respect for freedoms and calm. The party has also called on its members and supporters to remain united and vigilant in the face of these developments.
The developments have raised concerns about the state of democracy and human rights in Côte d'Ivoire, a country still recovering from the aftermath of the 2025 presidential election. The international community is watching closely as the situation unfolds.
Key points
- The PDCI-RDA party claims recent convocations of its members are politically motivated.
- The party is demanding an end to the instrumentalization of justice for political purposes.
- The developments have raised concerns about the state of democracy and human rights in Côte d'Ivoire.
