Abidjan, 1 June 2026 — The festivities marking Mother’s Day in Aboisso took center stage in today’s newspapers, with former First Ladies Henriette Bédié and Simone Gbagbo joining current First Lady Dominique Ouattara in a show of unity.
The milestone birthday of former President Laurent Gbagbo, who turned 81, also commanded significant attention across the press, alongside political developments, the activities of the PDCI-RDA party, and economic updates.
Mother’s Day in Aboisso: a symbol of social cohesion
The celebration of Mother’s Day in Aboisso emerged as the most discussed topic in the national media. Notre Voie highlighted the gathering of former and current First Ladies under the headline « Reuniting at Aboisso: a shining example. » Meanwhile, L’Inter framed the event as a powerful message of unity, noting the presence of Henriette Bédié and Simone Gbagbo alongside Dominique Ouattara. Le Matin echoed this sentiment, describing the three women as « magnifying pillars of social harmony. »
Le Patriote featured remarks from the First Lady, Dominique Ouattara, who addressed the crowd with the words: « You are the unseen architects of our society. » The newspaper also paid tribute to the contributions of Henriette Bédié and Simone Gbagbo. For its part, L’Expression dedicated its front page to the event, proclaiming: « First Ladies Ouattara, Bédié, and Gbagbo celebrate together, » followed by an in-depth look at the significance of honoring those who shape humanity.
Laurent Gbagbo turns 81: reflections on a political legacy
Former President Laurent Gbagbo’s 81st birthday also drew widespread coverage. Le Temps marked the occasion with the headline « President Gbagbo blows out 81 candles. » L’Avenir reflected on his four-decade political journey in an article titled « 81 years, 40 years in politics: Gbagbo’s enduring presence. »
Notre Voie published a tribute under the title « Yesterday, he turned 81: Laurent Gbagbo, the remarkable survivor of Ivorian politics. »
Political and economic headlines round out the news
The 80th anniversary of the PDCI-RDA party was a key focus for Le Nouveau Réveil, which reported on a « strong turnout in the eastern region in support of Thiam. » On the economic front, L’Expression drew attention with its front-page story: « The Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) as the ‘official provider’ of the Prime Minister. »
Meanwhile, L’Essor scrutinized government figures, questioning in its headline: « Why TBO, Anne Oulotto, and Dimba are causing controversy. »