Hope and Frustration: Youth Perspectives in Côte d’Ivoire’s Presidential Elections
As Côte d’Ivoire prepares to head to the polls on October 25 for a pivotal presidential election, a palpable wave of anticipation mingles with frustration among its most vital demographic: its youth. With around 75% of the country’s 38 million citizens under the age of 35, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Many of these young people find themselves grappling with limited job opportunities and a sense of disillusionment stemming from the current economic landscape—one that is healthy on paper but inequitable in practice.
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The Disillusionment of Young Voters
The atmosphere in Abidjan, the bustling economic capital, reflects a generational yearning for change. “We are tired of waiting for opportunities that never come,” says 25-year-old Zoe Kone, a recent university graduate. “We’ve watched as our elders continue to prosper, while we struggle to find work. This election is our chance to make our voices heard.” Zoe’s sentiments echo a chorus of similar frustrations among her peers, many of whom believe that the upcoming election raises more questions than answers about their future.
This discontent is underscored by political developments in the nation. With the disqualification of prominent figures such as former president Laurent Gbagbo and influential businessman Tidjane Thiam from the election, youth sentiments are increasingly directed towards alternative candidates. Chief among them is Jean-Louis Billon, a businessman and former trade minister who has emerged as the main challenger to the incumbent President Alassane Ouattara. “Billon represents a refreshing perspective,” says 30-year-old Abdoulaye Sylla, who has been actively campaigning for him. “He understands our struggles and our dreams for a better future.”
The Economic Divide
While President Ouattara has garnered accolades for steering Côte d’Ivoire’s economy through years of growth—recording a GDP growth rate among the highest in Africa—many young people remain skeptical. They feel that the economic benefits have predominantly lined the pockets of a select few, leaving their generation in the lurch. “They talk about economic growth, but I see my friends stuck in low-paying jobs,” says Fatoumata Toure, 29, who works as a teacher. “We need to invest in our skills, our ideas, and create real jobs.”
- Job Creation: Analysts report that job creation remains a critical issue, with youth unemployment rates soaring to over 30%.
- Education vs. Reality: Many young graduates find themselves overqualified and underemployed, a stark contradiction that fuels frustration.
- Corruption and Inequality: Despite the nation’s economic successes, corruption remains a rampant issue, exacerbating the divide between the wealthy elite and the youth.
Voices of Change
In this context of political change and economic inequality, the youth of Côte d’Ivoire are determined to reshape their narrative. They are leveraging social media platforms to voice their opinions and engage in political discourse. Activist groups are rallying supporters, not just to raise awareness about voting but also about accountability for elected officials. “Social media gives us a platform to express our thoughts and rally others,” says Lamine Diakite, 22, who heads a local youth organization. “Our votes are our power, and we intend to use it.”
A Crucial Moment in History
This election represents more than just a presidential decision; it encapsulates a pivotal moment for youth engagement in governance. As they flock to polling stations, they carry with them hopes for job opportunities, better education, and tangible support for entrepreneurial endeavors. Who will emerge victorious may reshape their future in profound ways, but these young voters are adamant: their voices will not be ignored this time.
Reflecting on the Future
As Côte d’Ivoire stands on the brink of significant political change, the questions for the future remain: Can a new leader rise to the challenge of an impatient and ambitious youth? Will the promises of economic prosperity extend beyond the privileged few to the masses yearning for new opportunities? These questions echo not just in Côte d’Ivoire but resonate in many countries where the youth seek a seat at the table of governance. With their hearts set on change, the young people of Côte d’Ivoire are ready to challenge the status quo. They await a leader who will understand their struggles and invest in their dreams.
The world watches closely as Côte d’Ivoire’s youth prepare to write their own chapter in the nation’s history. As they head to the polls, one thing is clear: this generation has no intention of remaining passive observers in their own future.
By Omer Aden
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
