Tidjane Thiam Renounces French Citizenship for Ivory Coast Presidential Election

Tidjane Thiam has renounced his French citizenship to qualify for the Ivory Coast presidential election in October. As the new leader of the PDCI, he is a leading candidate, but faces competition from Jean-Louis Billon. Thiam emphasizes his commitment to improving Ivorian living conditions while navigating a politically tense environment with President Ouattara signaling a bid for a fourth term.

Tidjane Thiam, the former CEO of Credit Suisse, has renounced his French citizenship to satisfy eligibility requirements for the upcoming presidential election in Ivory Coast, scheduled for October. As the newly elected leader of the PDCI party, one of the principal opposition groups, Thiam is a strong contender, although he faces competition from former trade minister Jean-Louis Billon, who has also announced his intention to pursue the nomination.

In a recent Facebook video, Thiam declared that he had formally requested to relinquish his French passport, which will enable him to stand as a candidate with exclusive Ivorian nationality during the election. Thiam emphasized his commitment to effecting meaningful change in Ivory Coast, stating, “I hereby renew my commitment to working for real change in Ivory Coast, so that the living conditions of Ivorians improve. That is what we are fighting for.”

At 62 years of age, Thiam has a notable political history, having served as a minister under former President Henri Konan Bedie in Ivory Coast. Following Bedie’s removal in a military coup in 1999, Thiam relocated and gained experience at firms such as McKinsey and Prudential. He took the reins as CEO of Credit Suisse in 2015 before returning to Ivory Coast to lead the PDCI party.

Current President Alassane Ouattara, who is 83, has indicated his desire to seek a fourth term, a move that is anticipated to trigger opposition from rival political factions. These parties previously challenged Ouattara’s eligibility when he sought a third term in the 2020 election.

(Writing by Anait Miridzhanian; Editing by Alessandra Prentice and Emelia Sithole-Matarise)

Tidjane Thiam’s decision to renounce his French citizenship stems from the requirements set for candidates in the Ivorian presidential election. As part of the PDCI party’s leadership, Thiam aims to position himself as a viable alternative to the current president, whose long tenure has sparked controversy and opposition. The political landscape in Ivory Coast is marked by the complexities surrounding eligibility for candidacy and ongoing tensions among political factions, particularly regarding President Ouattara’s anticipated candidacy for another term.

In summary, Tidjane Thiam’s renouncement of his French citizenship marks a significant step in his bid for the presidency of Ivory Coast. As the new leader of the PDCI and with a commitment to improving the lives of Ivorians, Thiam faces competition and challenges from seasoned politicians within a politically charged environment. His actions and intentions will undoubtedly shape the upcoming electoral landscape as stakeholders prepare for what promises to be a contested election.

Original Source: www.usnews.com