PPA-CI congress: disciplinary measures exclude key figures ahead of event

The PPA-CI (Parti des peuples africains-Côte d’Ivoire), led by former Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo, has announced strict disciplinary measures against several party members ahead of its first ordinary congress scheduled for May 14–15, 2026, in Abidjan.

The decision, outlined in an official statement, bars key figures including Don Mello, Stéphane Kipré, Dali Arthur, and Armand Ouégnin from attending the event. These individuals are currently under internal disciplinary review for defying the party’s directive to abstain from the October 2025 presidential and December 2025 legislative elections in Côte d’Ivoire.

Internal party tensions mount ahead of pivotal congress

The upcoming congress, set to take place at the Palais de la Culture in Abidjan, aims to strengthen party unity and revitalize grassroots support. However, the exclusion of prominent members underscores deep divisions within the PPA-CI, particularly regarding adherence to leadership decisions.

The move reflects the party’s resolve to enforce discipline, as stated in the communiqué: “Pending the outcomes of ongoing disciplinary proceedings, the following members are barred from participating in the first ordinary congress scheduled for May 14–15, 2026.”

This gathering marks a critical moment for the PPA-CI, as it seeks to reaffirm its political direction amid growing internal dissent and challenges to its electoral strategy.