Ahead of Ivory Coast’s Presidential Election, Religious Leaders Urge “restraint, respect for institutions, peace”

Abidjan, 02 October, 2025 / 8:42 PM

Religious leaders in Ivory Coast have appealed for calm and “restraint” ahead of the country’s October 25 presidential election. 

In a joint statement issued September 28, members of the Episcopal Conference of Ivory Coast (CECCI) and the Higher Council of Imams, Mosques and Islamic Affairs (COSIM) warn against the rise of utterances that cause social tensions.

“Today again, we unfortunately see verbal violence, particularly on social media, which has intensified since the Constitutional Council’s decision on the final list of candidates for the October 25 election,” the religious leaders say.

They lament that “since 1990, every presidential election has weakened social cohesion in our country” and appeal for “restraint, respect for institutions, and peace.”

CECCI and COSIM members further call on families to “be more vigilant in the education” of their children to “pass on to them the civic and moral values necessary for building our country.”

They call on politicians, be they approved candidates, rejected aspirants, or non-contestants, to show that politics is an instrument for building of the society. 

“Peace must come before any other consideration,” the religious leaders emphasize.

They remind members of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) and the Constitutional Council that their “decisions must be explained with clarity and pedagogy to strengthen trust and transparency.”

“Let us fully live out our faith in mutual respect and love for our neighbor. Peace is at the heart of every religion,” the religious leaders urge all believers.

To the press, the faith leaders say, “Your role as the fourth estate is essential. Safeguard the quality of information and contribute to the serenity of the electoral process.”

CECCI and COSIM members further urge religious leaders in Ivory Coast to be “models of peace and integrity, faithful to the teachings of our religions.”

Addressing the incumbent, President Alassane Ouattara, the religious leaders say, “We encourage you to continue your efforts to preserve peace and strengthen national unity. No sacrifice is too great for the stability of Ivory Coast.”

“Together, let us place Ivory Coast above all political considerations. Let us build a united, strong, and prosperous nation for future generations,” CECCI and COSIM members say in their September 28 joint statement.