ABIDJAN – Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara is safe. He continues his presidential duties in Abidjan. This information comes directly from government officials. They have strongly denied swirling social media rumors. These rumors suggested the President’s death, kidnapping, or even a successful coup. However, no credible evidence supports these dramatic claims.
Official sources in the Ivorian capital are clear: President Ouattara remains firmly in command. He is actively working from the presidential palace. He also maintains consistent communication with his ministers and the army’s high command. Confirming his active role, President Ouattara reportedly chaired a Council of Ministers session early Thursday. He is also guiding final preparations for the nationwide voter registration drive. This drive is crucial for the upcoming October 25, 2025, elections.
Abidjan Remains Calm: No Signs of Unrest
Independent journalists present in Abidjan have observed normal city life. There are no unusual military deployments. No unexpected roadblocks disrupt the city. These observations are important. They contrast sharply with patterns seen during past coup attempts in West Africa. Adding to this, civil aviation authorities confirmed no deviations in the presidential aircraft schedule. Flight-tracking data further showed all government jets secure at Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport. They remain under standard, routine guard.
Alassane Ouattara Status: Election Tensions Likely Behind False Reports
Why did these rumors about Alassane Ouattara status spread? Analysts believe growing anxieties about the upcoming election are a significant factor. President Ouattara is expected to seek what would be a third term. This ambition has already ignited spirited debate within legal and political circles. Recognizing the danger of misinformation, West African regional bodies, including ECOWAS, have issued a call. They urge all parties to stop spreading false information. Such disinformation, they warn, could destabilize a nation that has only recently found peace after the 2010–2011 post-electoral crisis.
President’s Engagements Proceed as Scheduled
Looking ahead, President Ouattara’s public schedule remains unchanged. He plans to attend town-hall meetings in Bouaké and San-Pedro next week. Following these important local engagements, he will travel to Lomé. There, he will participate in a summit of Francophone Economic Community heads of state. Political observers will watch these events closely. They will show whether the President’s engagements proceed smoothly. They will also help gauge if the alarming rumors were merely a fleeting digital storm.
By Abiodun Labi
