Ivory Coast flagPolitics & Government Guide

Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions in Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast is a presidential republic led by President Alassane Ouattara since 2010, with a bicameral legislature consisting of a 255-seat National Assembly and 99-seat Senate. The country operates under a 2016 constitution and has maintained relative political stability under the dominant Rally of the Republicans party, though it experienced post-election tensions in 2020 that have since been addressed through opposition dialogue.

Government Type

Presidential Republic

Legal System

Civil law system based on French legal traditions

Head of State

President Alassane Dramane Ouattara(since 2010)

Head of Government

Prime Minister Robert Breugré Mambésince 2023

Legislature

Type:bicameral
Upper House:Senate (99 seats)
Lower House:National Assembly (255 seats)

Major Political Parties

Rally of the Republicans(RHDP)

Center

Democratic Party of Côte d'Ivoire(PDCI)

Center-right

Voting Rights

All citizens aged 18 and above have the right to vote in presidential and legislative elections. The president is elected by absolute majority through a two-round voting system for a five-year term with a maximum of two consecutive terms. National Assembly members are elected by plurality vote for five-year terms.

Recent Developments

  • Government dialogue with opposition initiated, resulting in electoral commission overhaul and compensation for victims of political violence
  • Robert Breugré Mambé appointed Prime Minister on October 17, 2023, succeeding the Achi II government
  • Constitutional framework established Senate with 99 seats in 2018, with two-thirds elected indirectly and one-third appointed by the president
Voting Age18
SuffrageUniversal adult suffrage
Constitution2016
Districts and Autonomous Districts14