FORMER Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam has officially renounced his French citizenship, a strategic move to meet eligibility requirements for Cote d’Ivoire’s presidential election scheduled for October 2025. Thiam, who was elected leader of the Democratic Party of Cote d’Ivoire (PDCI) in 2023, is seen as a strong contender to challenge the ruling party’s grip on power.
In a video shared on Facebook on Friday, Thiam confirmed that he had submitted a request to relinquish his French passport, ensuring he holds only Ivorian nationality as required by the country’s electoral laws.
‘I hereby renew my commitment to working for real change in Cote d’Ivoire, so that the living conditions of Ivorians improve. That’s what we’re fighting for,’ Thiam, 62, declared, underscoring his dedication to national development and reform.
Thiam’s political journey: from finance to presidential hopeful
Thiam’s political journey is deeply rooted in Cote d’Ivoire’s history. He previously served as a minister under former President Henri Konan Bédié before leaving the country following a military coup in 1999. After relocating abroad, Thiam built an illustrious career in international finance, working with McKinsey & Company, insurance giants Aviva and Prudential, and eventually becoming the CEO of Credit Suisse in 2015.
Despite his global success, Thiam returned to Cote d’Ivoire to contest the leadership of the PDCI, the country’s oldest political party, founded by the country’s first president, Félix Houphouët-Boigny. His leadership has revitalised the party, positioning it as a formidable opposition force ahead of the upcoming elections.
Competition within the PDCI and political landscape
While Thiam remains a frontrunner within the PDCI, he faces internal competition. Jean-Louis Billon, a former trade minister, has announced his intention to seek the party’s nomination, setting the stage for a contested primary. The PDCI’s decision on its presidential candidate will significantly influence the opposition’s ability to challenge the ruling party.
Meanwhile, President Alassane Ouattara, now 83, has hinted at the possibility of seeking a fourth term, a move likely to reignite political tensions. His controversial third-term bid in 2020 faced strong opposition, with critics arguing it violated constitutional limits. Another candidacy could spark renewed debate over term limits and democratic principles in Cote d’Ivoire.
A nation at a crossroads
Cote d’Ivoire stands at a critical juncture as it prepares for the 2025 elections. With Thiam’s return to the political arena and his formal renunciation of French citizenship, the race promises to be both competitive and consequential.
As the PDCI deliberates on its final nominee, the broader political landscape will be shaped by questions of governance, constitutional integrity, and the future direction of one of West Africa’s most influential nations.
Thiam’s candidacy symbolises a potential shift, blending international expertise with a vision for local reform. Whether this will resonate with Ivorian voters remains to be seen as the country moves closer to a pivotal election.
