While the PDCI-RDA expresses concerns about the safety of its president, the government spokesperson, Amadou Coulibaly, wanted to clarify the State's position this Wednesday, April 15, 2026: Tidjane Thiam is free to return to the country without conditions.

A prolonged exile that worries the PDCI

Since the beginning of 2025, Tidjane Thiam has been residing in France, from where he directs the activities of Ivory Coast's oldest political party. This prolonged absence from the field is beginning to weigh on his supporters.

The debate was reignited last Thursday during the launch of the PDCI-RDA's 80th anniversary celebrations. Blessy Chrysostome, a party official, publicly called on the authorities to establish "appropriate conditions" for the safe return of their leader. This appeal was heard by Ibrahim Cissé Bacongo, executive secretary of the RHDP (the ruling party), who pledged to convey the message to the highest levels of government.

The executive's firm response

When questioned after the Council of Ministers meeting, Amadou Coulibaly dismissed the idea of exceptional measures or administrative obstacles. For the government, Tidjane Thiam's status is unequivocal:

1. Freedom of movement: "Mr. Tidjane Thiam is a free Ivorian citizen like any other. He can return whenever he wants, however he wants," the spokesperson insisted.
2. Security guaranteed: The executive claims to be unaware of any threat against the former banker.
3. Political normalization: The minister noted that many opposition leaders, particularly from the PPA-CI, have already returned to the country and are carrying out their activities without hindrance.

Between politics and administration

Amadou Coulibaly also took care to distinguish between partisan courtesy and state management. While dialogue appears to be open between the RHDP and the PDCI on the political front, the government's position remains purely sovereign: Tidjane Thiam is not subject to any official restrictions.

"He is free to come and go like everyone else who is outside the country." — Amadou Coulibaly , government spokesperson.

The ball is now in the court of the PDCI-RDA, implicitly invited by the government to specify the exact nature of the fears which, according to them, would prevent the physical return of their leader to Abidjan.