Ahead of Saturday’s presidential election, the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) led by former Nigerian President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has urged Ivorians to maintain peace, law and order, not only to protect Côte d’Ivoire’s democratic achievements but also to preserve the environment that has enabled economic growth and regional leadership.
In a statement issued on Friday in Abidjan where the WAEL election mission has being holding consultations with different stakeholders, Dr. Jonathan also called on the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) and security agencies to uphold professionalism and integrity throughout the process, in order to ensure a fair and transparent vote.
The statement came on the eve of the polling following consultations with Ivorian authorities, including President Alassane Ouattara, the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI), the Constitutional Council, some presidential candidates, minister of interior and civil society groups.
Dr. Jonathan commended all stakeholders for their commitment to dialogue and democracy and called on Ivorians to embrace peace as they prepare to cast their votes.
“Peace is the foundation upon which progress is built,” said Dr. Jonathan. “Côte d’Ivoire has made remarkable strides in development and infrastructure.. It is therefore vital that all citizens safeguard this progress by ensuring that the elections are peaceful, transparent, and credible.”
The Forum emphasized that maintaining peace is in the national interest, not only to protect Côte d’Ivoire’s democratic achievements but also to preserve the environment that has enabled economic growth and regional leadership.
“We urge every Ivorian to remember that elections should unite, not divide,” Dr. Jonathan added. “By choosing peace, Ivorians are choosing stability, prosperity, and the continued advancement of their nation.”
The Forum reaffirmed its confidence in the Ivorian people’s ability to demonstrate once again their resilience and commitment to democratic values, urging all eligible voters to turn out peacefully and express their will through the ballot box.
“The West African Elders Forum stands in solidarity with Côte d’Ivoire,” said Dr. Jonathan. “We believe that with peace and unity, the nation will continue to be a beacon of progress and stability in West Africa.”
Signed:
Ikechukwu Eze
Special Adviser to H.E. Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan
Head of Delegation, West African Elders Forum (WAEF)**
