Neither the pouring rain nor the slippery roads succeeded in stopping the activists of the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI-RDA), who came in large numbers on the morning of Saturday, June 14, to the Sococé space in Deux-Plateaux. In a militant atmosphere, the oldest Ivorian political party set the tone for a broad mobilization movement in support of its president, Tidjane Thiam.

The highlight of this gathering was a planned march towards the headquarters of the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI), to demand that their leader’s name be included on the electoral list. This demand, which party officials describe as legitimate, is based on the civil and political rights of Mr. Thiam, which they consider to have been unfairly challenged.

Despite unfavorable weather, the crowd gathered from the early hours at the Sococé space, holding up placards, flags, and slogans in support of Tidjane Thiam. Men, women, young and old militants braved the elements to reaffirm their commitment. Campaign choirs, messages of solidarity, and calls for democracy punctuated the morning. “We are here to defend our democracy. Tidjane Thiam is our choice, our candidate. We will not accept any maneuver to exclude him from the electoral process,” declared a party official amid cheers.

For the organizers, this gathering is only a first step. Larger-scale actions are planned if the CEI does not respond to their request promptly. “The rain will not stop us, nor will injustice,” chanted a soaked but visibly energized activist.