Abidjan, July 13, 2026 – Dr Ahoua Don-Mello, who contested the October 2025 presidential election, along with his core team, has embarked on a significant new phase of their political journey. They have officially commenced the process of establishing a new political party following a comprehensive plenary assembly held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, in Abidjan.

During the gathering, which brought together sympathizers and members of Mr. Don-Mello’s presidential campaign organizing committee, attendees overwhelmingly endorsed a resolution to form a distinct political entity.

This pivotal decision emerged from the findings of a dedicated reflection commission. This commission was tasked with assessing the organizational prospects of the movement. Its report, presented to the assembly, strongly advocated for the creation of a structured political party to solidify and ensure the long-term impact of the initiatives spearheaded by the former presidential candidate.

Consequently, the assembly entrusted Dr Ahoua Don-Mello with the mandate to guide the formation of this new political structure. He is also charged with organizing the forthcoming « Congrès des Pionniers » (Pioneers’ Congress), which is slated to serve as the foundational event for the nascent party.

This strategic move signifies the evolution of the former candidate’s campaign apparatus into a fully-fledged political organization. The emerging party aims to position itself as a formidable force for proposals, unity, and an alternative vision for the nation. It is poised to uphold core values such as democracy, social justice, robust governance, solidarity, meritocracy, and, crucially, national sovereignty, a key aspect of African governance.

Following the assembly’s deliberations, Dr Ahoua Don-Mello expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him and outlined the broad strategic directions of the political project. He extended a fervent appeal to all patriotic, progressive, democratic, and sovereignist forces across the nation to unite under this new banner. His vision is to forge a Côte d’Ivoire that is « more just, more prosperous, more united and fully sovereign, » marking a notable development in African current affairs.

« The preparatory work for the Pioneers’ Congress will commence without delay, with the precise date for this landmark meeting to be announced as soon as possible, » it was confirmed.

Dr Ahoua Don-Mello, who was a vice-president of the Parti des peuples africains-Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI) before his removal, ran as an independent candidate in the October 2025 presidential election.

By Boureima Amadou — Reporter