On Wednesday, President Alassane Ouattara chaired a council of ministers meeting at the presidential palace in Abidjan, reaffirming his leadership amidst swirling coup rumors. The Ivorian presidency released images and statements confirming his active role, aiming to dispel misinformation circulating online.
Social Media Fuels False Narratives
While the government convened, social media platforms buzzed with unfounded claims of a military takeover and the president’s alleged demise. An X user suggested Ouattara had been killed following a supposed military coup, and that internet access was disrupted. These allegations rapidly spread across platforms like X, Facebook, TikTok, and mainstream media, with Facebook alone recording discussions among approximately 9,700 users regarding the alleged coup.
Journalists Debunk Misinformation
Local journalists swiftly countered the false narratives. Christelle Kouamé, an Ivorian journalist based in Abidjan and a member of the National Union of Journalists of Côte d’Ivoire, stated, “There is no coup in Côte d’Ivoire. The country is stable.” She emphasized the president’s recent public appearances, including his attendance at the Africa CEO Forum and the council of ministers meeting, as evidence of stability. Kouamé also refuted claims of internet disruption, highlighting her ability to communicate via the internet.
Regional Instability Heightens Sensitivities
The proliferation of coup rumors in Côte d’Ivoire reflects a broader pattern of political instability in West Africa. Countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea have experienced successful military takeovers in recent years, fostering anxiety in neighboring states about potential upheavals. The region’s history of coups has made populations more susceptible to believing and spreading such rumors, even in the absence of concrete evidence.
Internet Disruptions Compound Confusion
Adding to the chaos, Côte d’Ivoire experienced significant internet disruptions due to undersea cable cuts. Reports indicate that the country was severely affected, with mobile network operators operating on minimal data capacity. The disruptions impacted various sectors, including banking, healthcare, education, and government services, underscoring the critical role of internet access in daily life. While these outages were unrelated to any political unrest, they inadvertently lent credence to the false coup narratives circulating online.
Upcoming AfDB Meetings Amidst Political Uncertainty
The timing of the rumors coincided with preparations for the African Development Bank’s (AfDB) annual meetings, set to take place in Côte d’Ivoire. These meetings are significant, as officials will elect a new president to succeed Akinwumi Adesina, who has served two terms. The convergence of political speculation and infrastructural challenges has heightened tensions as the country prepares to host this major international event.
Ouattara’s Potential Fourth Term Bid
President Ouattara’s political future remains a topic of intense discussion. In recent statements, he hinted at the possibility of running for a fourth term in the upcoming 2025 elections, citing his good health and willingness to continue serving the nation. This potential bid has sparked debates about constitutional limits and the implications for democratic governance in Côte d’Ivoire.
Conclusion: Navigating a Complex Landscape
Côte d’Ivoire’s recent experiences underscore the challenges of maintaining political stability in a region fraught with uncertainty. The rapid spread of misinformation, compounded by infrastructural vulnerabilities, highlights the need for robust communication strategies and resilient systems. As the country approaches critical political milestones, ensuring transparency and fostering public trust will be essential in navigating the complexities ahead.
