Ivory Coast at Boiling Point as Gen Z Floods Streets Ahead of Election

Generation Z protesters flood Ivory Coast’s streets ahead of the October 25 election, defying bans and clashing with police as tensions rise (image source)

ABIDJAN — Youth-led protests have swept across Abidjan and several Ivorian cities after organizers called for nationwide marches denouncing what they describe as shrinking political space and an exclusionary electoral process ahead of the October 25 presidential election. Thousands of demonstrators—many from Generation Z—defied an official ban, turning city centers into flashpoints of mass mobilization and confrontation with security forces.

Tensions escalated rapidly when police moved to break up gatherings. Authorities deployed tear gas and blocked major roads leading to rally points, resulting in widespread chaos and arrests. Interior and Security Minister Gen. Vagondo Diomandé confirmed that at least 237 people were detained on the first day of protests. Videos circulating on social media showed heavily armed riot police pushing back demonstrators and establishing checkpoints to seal off several neighborhoods.

The youth-led protests brought together students, young professionals, and activists united by frustration over perceived political exclusion. “We came because this is our future,” said a 21-year-old protester in Abidjan who declined to be named. Witnesses described a mix of chanting, drumming, and placards demanding electoral justice and inclusion. The atmosphere fluctuated between calm and chaos as protesters repeatedly regrouped after dispersals.

Political analysts say the youth surge reflects deeper socioeconomic and governance challenges. A governance specialist based in Abidjan noted that the mobilization underscores long-standing frustrations over limited job prospects, the erosion of democratic norms, and tight state control over candidate eligibility. The analyst warned that continued heavy-handed policing could further alienate young citizens and risk escalating into broader unrest if grievances are ignored.

Human-rights observers condemned the government’s pre-emptive protest ban and mass arrests, arguing that restrictions on peaceful assembly undermine civic space and risk fueling further confrontation. They called on authorities to protect the right to protest, ensure public safety, and engage with youth movements and civil-society groups before tensions spiral further out of control.

As the presidential campaign gains momentum, the coming days will test whether the Ivorian government can balance order and rights protection. The ability of youth activists to sustain pressure without provoking harsher crackdowns—and the state’s capacity to respond without deepening repression—will determine whether Ivory Coast can maintain stability during a politically charged and closely watched election season.