Gendarme shot and killed as tensions mount ahead of Ivory Coast presidential election

Incident Report: Gendarme Fatality in Ivory Coast Amid Election Tensions

A gendarme has been shot and killed while on patrol in the southern region of Ivory Coast. The perpetrators remain unidentified. This area is known as a traditional opposition stronghold and has been the site of recent unrest following the disqualification of opposition candidates Laurent Gbagbo and Tidjane Thiam from the upcoming presidential election.

Government Restrictions and Election Context

The government of President Alassane Ouattara has implemented a ban on all protests. President Ouattara, currently seeking a fourth term at the age of 83, is now contesting against four opposition candidates: Simone Gbagbo, Ahoua Don Mello, Jean-Louis Billon, and Henriette Lagou. Political rallies for these candidates have not been affected by the protest ban.

Since his tenure began in 2011, President Ouattara has focused on significant infrastructure development within the country. However, issues such as rising inequality and living costs have been prominent. Additionally, some opposition figures have expressed concerns over Ouattara's perceived alignment with France, the former colonial power.

Based on reporting by Africanews.