The future of Côte d’Ivoire’s electoral governance remains a hot-button issue following the dissolution of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI). A coalition of 37 Ivorian civil society groups, movements, and NGOs—known as the PEC-CI—addressed these concerns on May 14, 2026, during a high-profile press briefing in Abidjan.

The PEC-CI, led by its president Ebrin Yao Rémi, urged authorities to initiate a direct and inclusive political dialogue with opposition leaders Laurent Gbagbo and Tidjane Thiam. The platform argues that such engagement is critical to easing political tensions and fostering a collaborative environment for shaping a fair and transparent electoral framework.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, the PEC-CI stressed that the country’s stability hinges on political actors setting aside differences to prioritize the greater good. In a statement, they emphasized the need for a frank and constructive dialogue to resolve persistent disputes over election management.

Restructuring the electoral system: a proposal for a fully independent body

Beyond political engagement, the coalition is advocating for a complete overhaul of the electoral system. Their proposal calls for a new institution, exclusively managed by civil society, to take charge of future elections—excluding direct participation from political parties. This body would be formed through an open call for qualified candidates, ensuring transparency, independence, and expertise in its membership.

The PEC-CI also recommends granting this entity a dedicated budget, approved by the National Assembly, to bolster its financial and operational autonomy. This demand comes amid growing skepticism about the impartiality of electoral institutions. The coalition points to past elections marred by violence, contested results, and tragic loss of life as evidence of the current system’s failures.

While acknowledging that the former CEI was established through political compromises, the PEC-CI criticized its abrupt dissolution without prior consultation with opposition figures and key civil society representatives. They warn that this lack of dialogue could deepen political divides ahead of upcoming elections.

Rebuilding trust through reform

In closing, the coalition called for a comprehensive and consensus-driven reform of Côte d’Ivoire’s electoral process. They view this as the only path to restoring confidence among institutions, political players, and citizens alike.