By Emeka Blast Attempted coup in cote de’vour
As of May 21, 2025, there are widespread rumors and unconfirmed reports suggesting a possible coup attempt in Ivory Coast. These claims have been circulating on social media platforms, alleging significant violence, internet disruptions, and the potential fleeing or even death of President Alassane Ouattara. Reports indicate that over 33 people may have died between May 19 and 20, 2025, amid clashes in Abidjan, the capital city. Additionally, there are reports of a media blackout and widespread unrest that could escalate into civil war.
However, no major international news outlets, including Reuters, BBC, or France24, have corroborated these claims as of May 21, 2025. The lack of verification from established sources urges caution. Ivory Coast has a history of political volatility, with post-election violence in 2010–2011 claiming around 3,000 lives, but the country has enjoyed relative stability in recent years. The current claims of a coup and the president’s disappearance—some posts even suggesting he may be dead or detained—have not been substantiated by official statements or credible reports.
Meanwhile, verified developments in Ivory Coast point to heightened political activity ahead of the October 2025 presidential election. On May 14, 2025, Tidjane Thiam, former CEO of Credit Suisse, was re-elected as leader of the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI), the main opposition party. Thiam, a prominent figure with ties to Ivory Coast’s founding president Félix Houphouët-Boigny, resigned temporarily to address legal challenges over his dual French-Ivorian citizenship, which had previously led to his removal from the electoral roll in April 2025. His re-election keeps him in contention for the presidency, though legal disputes persist, with Thiam arguing the nationality ruling was politically motivated to block his candidacy.
The unconfirmed reports of a coup, while concerning, must be weighed against the absence of evidence from reliable sources. Ivory Coast’s political landscape is undoubtedly tense, with the upcoming election and Thiam’s legal battles highlighting divisions. However, the country’s recent stability and economic progress suggest a complex situation rather than an immediate descent into chaos. Authorities have not commented on the alleged coup, and until credible evidence emerges, the claims on social media remain speculative.
