In Côte d'Ivoire, the political scene is once again stirring around the Party of African Peoples-Côte d'Ivoire (PPA-CI). Former president Laurent Gbagbo has officially convened an extraordinary session of the Central Committee for Thursday, March 12, 2026. The meeting will be held at his office in Attoban-Cocody, Abidjan.

Heading towards the first ordinary congress

According to the statement released by the general secretariat, this meeting is entirely devoted to preparations for the party's first ordinary congress , scheduled for next May.

This deadline follows on from the meeting of January 24th, where the holding of the congress was confirmed. It is a crucial step for the PPA-CI, which is seeking to redefine its strategy after a period marked by major political challenges, notably the failure of the movement against President Alassane Ouattara's fourth term and the boycott of the last legislative elections, largely dominated by the RHDP.

Uncertainty surrounding the party leadership

Beyond the logistical aspect, this extraordinary session carries within it a major political stake: the future of Laurent Gbagbo at the head of the party .

The founder of the PPA-CI in October 2021, the former head of state surprised observers a few weeks ago by expressing his desire to step down as president. This intention sparked considerable concern among party activists and leaders. At the previous meeting of the Central Committee, an official request was submitted to Mr. Gbagbo, urging him to reconsider his decision. The meeting on March 12 could therefore be the scene of definitive clarifications regarding the party's leadership.