Observation Mission in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire

The International Human Rights Commission – IHRC has assembled a team of 26 qualified observers participating in the Observation Mission in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire to oversee the review of the electoral roll. This mission, conducted in collaboration with the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI), aims to monitor and ensure transparency, integrity, and adherence to international democratic standards. The observation mission is overseen by IHRC Commissioner Fofana Vamara, who plays a key role in coordinating observation activities and ensuring their compliance with international norms.

Driven by its mission to support democratic electoral processes, IHRC is monitoring the entire electoral cycle – from registration to the publication of results – to ensure transparency and credibility throughout. Observing the review and update of the electoral roll for 2024-2025 in Côte d’Ivoire is a vital step towards promoting electoral integrity.

IHRC observers work according to recognised international standards, monitoring each stage of the electoral process to ensure alignment with national regulations and democratic principles. Their assessment is based on transparent and objective criteria, reinforcing IHRC’s professionalism in conducting observation missions.

The electoral roll review is conducted under Article 6 of the Electoral Code, which mandates the national electoral commission to annually update the register. The purpose of these actions includes registering new voters, updating information, removing individuals who have lost voting rights, and recording voting location changes upon voter request. The roll will cover individuals already registered (8,012,425 voters, including 99,241 abroad), as well as new adults and previously unregistered individuals who meet citizenship criteria and have full political rights.

The review process commenced on 19 October and will continue until 10 November 2024 in Côte d’Ivoire and across 21 countries where eligible voters reside. These actions are conducted under the accreditation granted by the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) and are supervised by IHRC observers, who ensure procedural compliance and transparency.

As a neutral observer, IHRC aims to collaborate with local institutions, fostering public trust and ensuring the electoral process adheres to international standards. Through close cooperation with national bodies, IHRC strengthens electoral transparency and promotes democratic development.

At the conclusion of the mission, IHRC will publish a final report that includes analysis and recommendations for future electoral processes. This report, available to the public, serves as a critical tool for strengthening democratic elections and promoting transparency in future procedures.

The team of 26 experienced IHRC observers active in Côte d’Ivoire monitors all aspects of the electoral roll review, ensuring the process’s integrity. Their role includes rigorous oversight of registration and data update stages in full adherence to democratic principles.

The IHRC observers participating in the mission are:
Commissioner IHRC Mr. Fofana Vamara, Mr. Diawara Kalil Aboubakary, M. Eby Noel N’Gouan, Mr. Ouattara Ali, Mlle. Coulibaly Yelli Maimouna, Mr. Belafonte Bitty Rocard Max, Mme. Aka Danielle Sympathie, Mr. Bakayoko Inza, Mme. Icha Itam Akpama, Mr. Prmo Kouakou Alexis, Mr. Mohamed Aly Diabate, Mme. Kouyate Kadidja, Mr. Ouattara Seydou, M. Kouassi Jean Nichael N’Douffou, Mlle. Kouakou Adjoa Madeleine, Mlle. Kouakou Aya Flora, Mr. Cisse Sekou, M. Diarra Idriss, Mlle. Kone Massiami Sidney, Mr. Alou Yao Ange, Mme. Gohonn Pelagie Alou Epse Yao, Mr. Yoroba Armel Brice, Mr. Dokpe Otchere Paulin, Mlle. Koffi Marie-Ange Colombe, Mlle. Koffi Ahou Lucette, Mr. Kouassi Abohaya Koffi Justin.

In fulfilling its mission in Côte d’Ivoire, IHRC contributes to strengthening democratic standards and ensuring electoral transparency, representing a significant step towards regional stability and the rule of law.

Reported:
Dawid Szablowski
Head of IHRC Press Department