The African Peoples’ Party – Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI) convened its inaugural ordinary congress on May 14, 2026, at the Palais de la Culture in Treichville, Abidjan. This pivotal political gathering not only saw the reaffirmation of former Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo’s leadership but also the imposition of disciplinary measures against several key figures and party members.

At 81 years old, Laurent Gbagbo secured his re-election through acclamation, witnessed by nearly 3,000 delegates. This endorsement stemmed from a clear recommendation by the party’s Central Committee, which expressed a strong desire for the historical leader to continue guiding the political trajectory of the PPA-CI, a party established in October 2021.

With this renewed mandate, the party signals its firm intent to solidify its standing within the Ivorian opposition landscape, particularly as crucial electoral cycles approach.

Nevertheless, the congress also heralded a significant internal restructuring effort. A number of party officials faced sanctions for failing to adhere to directives issued during the 2025 legislative and presidential elections.

Notably, three senior cadres were expelled: Awa Domelo, Fernand Ailé, and Kanga Kwaku Antoine.

Furthermore, 25 activists received suspensions ranging from 12 to 18 months. Among those affected were Stéphane Kipré and Ouien George Armand, both handed an 18-month suspension.

Within party circles, it was understood that these punitive measures stemmed from certain cadres’ backing of dissident candidacies, directly contravening the boycott instructions issued by the PPA-CI leadership during prior elections.

The situation involving Awa Domelo garnered particular scrutiny. Her earlier candidacy had been put forward as a precautionary step, given the legal ambiguities surrounding Laurent Gbagbo’s eligibility at the time.

The party’s leadership views these extensive sanctions as crucial for bolstering internal discipline and establishing a clear political direction for the PPA-CI as it gears up for upcoming electoral contests.

This congress unfolds amid a period of political realignment in Côte d’Ivoire, where the ruling RHDP consistently demonstrates its organizational prowess. Through this decisive display of authority, the PPA-CI aims to underscore that Laurent Gbagbo remains the pivotal figure around whom the party’s future trajectory is built, a development keenly observed by those following Sahel current affairs and broader regional political shifts.