Tidjane Thiam, former Credit Suisse CEO, has renounced his French citizenship to run for president of Ivory Coast, representing the opposition PDCI party. His announcement comes amid speculation regarding nominations for the election, as competition may include former trade minister Jean-Louis Billon. Thiam aims to improve conditions for Ivorians and faces an electoral context influenced by President Ouattara’s potential fourth term bid.
Tidjane Thiam, the former CEO of Credit Suisse, has officially renounced his French citizenship to qualify as a candidate in the upcoming presidential election in Ivory Coast this October. As the leader of the opposition party PDCI, Thiam is a front-runner for nomination, although competition is expected from other candidates, including former trade minister Jean-Louis Billon.
In a Facebook video announcement, Thiam expressed his commitment to exclusively holding Ivorian nationality at the time of the election, stating his determination to evoke significant change in the lives of Ivorians. “I hereby renew my commitment to working for real change in Ivory Coast, so that the living conditions of Ivorians improve. That’s what we’re fighting for,” he declared.
Thiam, aged 62, previously served as a minister in Ivory Coast during the presidency of Henri Konan Bedie. Following the military coup in 1999 that ousted Bedie, he transitioned to roles in various global firms, including McKinsey and Prudential, prior to his leadership at Credit Suisse, which commenced in 2015. His return to Ivory Coast marks a significant step in his political career within one of the country’s prominent historical parties.
Current President Alassane Ouattara, aged 83, has indicated a desire to pursue a fourth term, a move likely to encounter opposition from parties contesting his eligibility based on previous elections. This context sets the stage for heightened political activity and engagement as the election approaches.
The article discusses the political aspirations of Tidjane Thiam, whose recent decision to renounce his French citizenship reflects the legal requirements for eligibility in Ivory Coast’s presidential election. Thiam’s prominence in the political landscape is underscored by his role in the PDCI and his significant career prior to this political pursuit. The complexities of the election scenario, including other potential candidates, highlight the dynamic political environment in Ivory Coast.
Tidjane Thiam’s formal renunciation of French citizenship marks a pivotal moment in his campaign for the presidency of Ivory Coast. His commitment to the development of the nation underscores the intent of his candidacy against the backdrop of a challenging electoral scene, with President Ouattara’s potential candidacy adding to the competition. Thiam’s established political background and leadership in the PDCI positions him as a critical figure in the upcoming elections.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
