Côte d’Ivoire: ADCI condemns travel ban imposed on leader Assalé Tiémoko

The political movement ADCI has strongly criticized the sudden travel ban imposed on its president, Assalé Tiémoko Antoine, who was prevented from boarding a flight to Canada on May 11, 2026. The incident, described as a deliberate attempt to humiliate a prominent political figure, has sparked outrage among supporters and raised serious questions about the respect for citizen rights in the country.

a politically motivated move

According to ADCI’s official statement, Assalé Tiémoko Antoine had fully complied with all legal and procedural requirements for international travel. The prosecutor’s office had previously lifted a prior detention measure on April 23, 2026, confirming his freedom to move without restrictions. Despite this, airport authorities abruptly informed him at the last moment that he was barred from traveling, citing an alleged instruction from the prosecutor’s office.

ADCI condemned the lack of transparency in this decision, noting that neither the party nor its legal representatives had received any formal notification of a travel ban. The movement emphasized that its president has always shown commitment to democratic principles and has no intention of evading justice.

planned political tour disrupted

The travel ban occurred just before Assalé Tiémoko Antoine was set to embark on a highly publicized political mobilization tour across North America. Scheduled from May 12 to 26, 2026, the trip was intended to strengthen ties with the Ivorian diaspora and expand ADCI’s organizational presence abroad. The initiative had been openly announced during a seminar in Nantes, France, in March 2026, and was widely known within the party’s ranks.

Airport officials allowed the leader to complete all exit formalities, only to later inform him of a last-minute restriction. After waiting for over two hours at the airport police office, he was eventually allowed to return home without explanation.

ADCI’s demands for justice and dignity

ADCI has called on authorities to provide a clear and formal justification for the travel ban. The party insists that such decisions, especially when involving elected officials, must be communicated in writing and with full respect for the dignity of the individual. ADCI has reassured its members to remain calm while promising to keep them informed of further developments.

Statement from ADCI Secretariat:

“In a democracy, public action must be conducted with dignity and transparency. Any restriction on a citizen’s freedom—particularly a political figure—must be formally notified and justified. We demand clarity and call for calm reflection during this time.”

Roger Youan, Executive Secretary