Delegates at the PPA-CI’s first ordinary congress in Abidjan overwhelmingly re-elected Laurent Gbagbo as party leader. The gathering, held at the Treichville Cultural Center on May 14, saw nearly 3,000 activists endorse the 80-year-old former president for another term.

The party’s decision comes after Gbagbo’s return from the International Criminal Court (ICC), where he was cleared of charges related to the 2010-2011 post-election violence in Côte d’Ivoire. Despite announcing plans in 2025 to step back from official party duties while remaining politically active, Gbagbo yielded to the strong urging of his supporters and agreed to continue leading the PPA-CI.

This congress marks a pivotal moment for the party, which aims to solidify its internal structure and revitalize its grassroots presence. Party leaders see Gbagbo’s new mandate as a bridge to a gradual handover to a younger generation of leaders, ensuring continuity while adapting to changing political dynamics.

The re-election underscores the enduring influence of Gbagbo within Ivorian politics and the PPA-CI’s commitment to his vision. As the party looks ahead, observers anticipate a renewed focus on mobilizing support and refining its policy agenda to address contemporary challenges in Côte d’Ivoire.