Tidjane Thiam enters Côte d'Ivoire presidential race

Côte d'Ivoire is preparing for a presidential election set for October in which Tidjane Thiam, the former CEO of Credit Suisse, has emerged as a key candidate. Thiam recently received overwhelming support from the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI), winning 99.5% of the vote in a nomination process where he ran unopposed. The recent political landscape has shifted after his only rival withdrew from the race, marking a significant moment in Ivorian politics as Thiam, a prominent figure abroad, returns to the country's political arena after many years working internationally. Political analysts predict that Thiam will face off against candidates from the ruling party, likely including incumbent President Alassane Ouattara, who is expected to seek a fourth term at the age of 83. Thiam's political journey began after he served as a minister in Côte d'Ivoire until a military coup in 1999 led him to pursue a career overseas. His background includes notable positions at several multinational companies and significant achievements in the finance sector. Despite these credentials, he faces challenges in re-establishing his profile among the Ivorian electorate, having lived outside the country for over two decades. Furthermore, he had renounced his French citizenship to qualify for the presidential race, a move that reflects his commitment to returning to his roots and leading Côte d'Ivoire. As the upcoming elections approach, Thiam's campaign strategy will be crucial as public perception and name recognition play a significant role in electoral success. With the political backdrop of previous elections marked by disputes and violence, Thiam's candidacy signifies both a potential shift in governance and the challenges that lie ahead.