ECOWAS LTOM Begins Operations in Côte d’Ivoire Ahead of Presidential Polls.
By Raymond Enoch.
In a decisive step towards strengthening democratic processes in West Africa, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially commenced the activities of its Long-Term Election Observation Mission (LTEOM) in Côte d’Ivoire. The move comes in preparation for the country’s crucial presidential election slated for October 25, 2025.
The official launch ceremony took place on October 3, 2025, at the ECOWAS Resident Representation Office in Abidjan. Presiding over the event was Her Excellency Ambassador Fanta Cissé, the ECOWAS Commission President’s Resident Representative in Côte d’Ivoire.
In her address, Ambassador Cissé warmly welcomed the team of long-term observers and praised their commitment to upholding democratic values. “This mission is pivotal not only for the credibility of the upcoming elections but also for the consolidation of peace and stability in Côte d’Ivoire,” she stated.
She emphasized the unique role of long-term observers, who will monitor the entire electoral cycle—from the pre-election period through to post-election developments. Their responsibilities include collecting and analyzing field data, assessing electoral preparations, and identifying potential areas of tension, with the ultimate goal of supporting a peaceful and transparent process.
Unlike short-term missions that focus on election day activities, the LTEOM is structured to provide a broader and more nuanced analysis of the electoral environment. This includes evaluating legal frameworks, voter registration processes, campaign dynamics, media coverage, and the overall political climate.
Ambassador Cissé reiterated ECOWAS’s dedication to accompanying Côte d’Ivoire on its democratic journey, assuring the observers of her office’s full support. “Your work here will be instrumental in ensuring that the will of the Ivorian people is respected. ECOWAS stands firmly behind this mission and its objectives,” she affirmed.
The deployment of the LTEOM underscores ECOWAS’s proactive approach to conflict prevention and democratic consolidation in the region. Côte d’Ivoire, a key political and economic player in West Africa, has experienced turbulent elections in the past. This long-term observation initiative is seen as a confidence-building measure, aiming to reinforce trust in the electoral process among citizens, political actors, and the international community.
As the nation enters a decisive electoral period, the ECOWAS LTEOM’s presence sets a tone of vigilance, transparency, and commitment to democratic governance. The regional bloc’s efforts are expected to contribute significantly to ensuring that the 2025 presidential elections are credible, inclusive, and peacefully conducted.
