Simone Gbagbo Aims for Presidential Comeback in Ivorian Election

Simone Ehivet Gbagbo, the former first lady of Ivory Coast, is making a remarkable attempt to reclaim political power as she runs for president in the upcoming election scheduled for March 9, 2024. This marks a significant moment in a country that has yet to see a female president. Gbagbo, 76, is competing under the banner of the Movement of Skilled Generations party against four other candidates, including the current president, Alassane Ouattara, who is seeking a fourth term.

During a campaign event in Guibéroua, Gbagbo expressed her belief that the nation is ready for its first female leader. “I think this idea of a female president is much less shocking than it was 20 years ago,” she stated. Gbagbo emphasized the importance of women’s representation in politics, asserting, “It’s good for a woman to run, and not just because it’s me. But if it’s me, then so much the better.”

Political Legacy and Challenges

As the wife of former president Laurent Gbagbo, Simone became a prominent figure in Ivorian politics, known for her strong influence and controversial stances. Throughout her husband’s decade-long rule, the nation faced significant turmoil, including a civil war and a political crisis that erupted after the 2010 election, when Laurent Gbagbo refused to concede defeat to Ouattara. This conflict resulted in over 3,000 deaths and left deep scars on the nation.

Following their eventual arrest in 2011 by French troops and U.N. peacekeepers, the Gbagbos faced numerous legal challenges. Laurent was charged with crimes related to the violence during the political crisis but was acquitted. Meanwhile, Simone faced an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court for “crimes against humanity,” which was lifted in 2021 after her husband’s acquittal. In 2015, she was sentenced to 20 years in prison on charges including undermining state security but received an amnesty in 2018 and returned to the political arena.

The couple divorced in 2023, ending a long-standing political partnership that began with their revolutionary ambitions. Unlike her ex-husband, who was barred from running, Simone Gbagbo is now one of the final contenders in a race that some analysts describe as lacking robust opposition, particularly due to the disqualification of several prominent rivals.

Vision for the Future

In light of her extensive political history, Gbagbo is banking on her experience to galvanize support. She has been a vocal advocate for social welfare programs aimed at addressing poverty and the high levels of inequality in the country. Moreover, she is calling for national reconciliation as the memories of civil strife remain fresh among the populace.

Gbagbo has expressed concerns regarding the current political climate, citing a crackdown on opposition voices. “Ivorians are angry and frustrated, and rightly so,” she remarked. She encouraged citizens to participate actively in the election, stating, “I think the wise thing to do would be to turn out en masse to vote and defeat the candidate they don’t want.”

As the election approaches, the potential for a significant shift in Ivorian politics looms large, with Simone Gbagbo’s candidacy representing both a personal comeback and a historic opportunity for the nation. Despite the challenges she faces, her campaign is attracting attention as she seeks to reshape the political landscape of Ivory Coast.