The Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire – African Democratic Rally (PDCI-RDA) officially launched, on Thursday, April 9, 2026, the celebrations marking its 80th anniversary during a ceremony held at its headquarters in Cocody, Abidjan.

The event brought together party executives, activists, and supporters who gathered to commemorate this symbolic milestone. Representatives of several political parties were also in attendance, including the Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP), represented by Cissé Ibrahim Bacongo.

Founded on April 9, 1946, by Félix Houphouët-Boigny, the PDCI-RDA is one of the oldest political parties in Africa. It played a central role in the country’s struggle for independence and governed Côte d’Ivoire for several decades after 1960.

According to party officials, the anniversary celebrations are intended not only to honor the party’s history but also to project its future ambitions. The program is expected to span several months and will include political, cultural, and commemorative activities across the country.

Planned events include conferences, nationwide tours, and tributes to key historical figures of the party, notably Henri Konan Bédié, as well as a major closing rally scheduled for October 2026 in Abidjan.

Beyond its commemorative aspect, the anniversary comes at a time when political parties are positioning themselves ahead of upcoming electoral deadlines. Through these activities, the PDCI-RDA aims to strengthen internal mobilization and reaffirm its role on the national political stage.