Ivory Coast President Removes Prime Minister, Dissolves Government

Ivory Coast's President Alassane Ouattara has taken the step of dismissing his Prime Minister, Patrick Achi, and has indicated plans for the formation of a new government, a full two years ahead of the next scheduled presidential elections.

President Ouattara issued a decree officially terminating the roles of the prime minister and all government members, as confirmed by a statement delivered by presidential secretary general Abdourahmane Cisse. In his statement, the President expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Patrick Achi and all the members of the government for their dedicated service to the nation during their tenure.

The decision to dismiss the prime minister and initiate government reshuffling had been anticipated in recent days, following the President's announcement to members of the government during the last cabinet meeting held on September 28. As of now, President Ouattara has not made an official announcement regarding his potential candidacy for a fourth term in office.

Patrick Achi assumed the role of Prime Minister in March 2021, following the passing of his predecessor, Hamed Bakayoko, who succumbed to cancer. Prior to that, Achi had taken over from Amadou Gon Coulibaly, who passed away unexpectedly the previous year.

Notably, Patrick Achi briefly resigned from his position in April 2022, only to be swiftly reappointed in a subsequent reshuffle. His recent victory in local elections held last month in the southern region of Me, where he secured a substantial majority, has contributed to his political standing.

The ruling Rally of Houphouetists for Democracy and Peace party (RHDP) is in a favorable position for the 2025 elections, having secured 60 percent of municipalities and 80 percent of the regions in the September elections.

As of now, President Ouattara has not made an official announcement regarding his potential candidacy for a fourth term in office.