The Long-Term Election Observation Mission (MOELT) of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially commenced its activities in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, ahead of the presidential election scheduled for 25 October 2025.
Among the international partners taking part in this important process is the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation), which plays a pivotal role in election observation, conflict prevention, and the promotion of democratic governance across the region.

A joint mission for peace and democracy

The official launch ceremony of the ECOWAS mission took place at the ECOWAS Representation Office in Abidjan under the chairmanship of H.E. Mrs. Fanta Cissé, Resident Representative of the ECOWAS Commission President.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Cissé underlined the significance of the mission for Côte d’Ivoire’s democratic stability, stating:

“This mission is a milestone in consolidating democracy and stability in Côte d’Ivoire. Observers play a crucial role in ensuring the credibility of the electoral process and the preservation of social peace.”

Immediately after their arrival, the ECOWAS long-term observers began consultations with key national stakeholders to assess the political and institutional context ahead of the presidential vote.
Their meetings included representatives from the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI), WANEP–CI, CIED, Indigo Côte d’Ivoire, AFJCI, CPHDA, CRPA, and notably the National Coordination for the IHRC Country Programme in Côte d’Ivoire, linked to the ECOWAS member states.

Active role of IHRC within the ECOWAS mission

The participation of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation) in the ECOWAS mission reaffirms the organisation’s growing importance in West Africa.
IHRC acts as a key partner supporting election monitoring, transparency, and institutional accountability.

Mr. Fofana Vamara, IHRC Country Representative for Côte d’Ivoire, Regional Coordinator and Commissioner (C-0013), serves as the Head of the Joint Observation Mission, facilitating coordination between ECOWAS and IHRC.
In his statement, he emphasised:

“The IHRC mission in Côte d’Ivoire is not limited to observing elections. It also aims to strengthen mechanisms for violence prevention and promote public trust. Our presence ensures transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights across the ECOWAS region.”

Observation, analysis and reporting

In the coming days, MOELT experts will expand their activities across various regions of Côte d’Ivoire to continue their field consultations and observations.
Their findings and analyses will contribute to the final report to be presented to the Head of the ECOWAS Electoral Observation Mission, which will be deployed from 19 October 2025.

This initiative exemplifies an effective inter-institutional cooperation framework combining the political expertise of ECOWAS with the humanitarian and human rights experience of IHRC.

Shared values – for Africa, peace and democracy

Through this mission, ECOWAS and IHRC reaffirm their shared commitment to supporting credible, transparent and peaceful elections, conducted in full respect of democratic principles, human rights, and good governance.
As a global non-profit organisation, IHRC continues to promote human dignity, intergovernmental dialogue, and the protection of fundamental rights, remaining a trusted partner of regional institutions and local communities.

Media Contacts (ECOWAS):

• Mr. Serigne Mamadou Ka – Head of Technical Team
  ska@ecowas.int | +234 808 888 2132
• Mr. Luther Barou – Head of Electoral Operations
  lbarou@ecowas.int | +234 909 483 3333

Media Contacts (IHRC – Côte d’Ivoire):

• Mr. Fofana Vamara – IHRC Country Representative, Regional Coordinator and Commissioner (C0013)
  f.vamara@smmihrc.org | infosnewsharp@gmail.com
  +225 07 09 11 10 39

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