Tidjane Thiam, the former leader of Credit Suisse, is set to contest the presidency in Ivory Coast's imminent elections, after confirming his candidacy with his party, the PDCI. As the only candidate representing this significant opposition party, Thiam, who has lived abroad for the last two decades, faces challenges regarding his recognition among voters. To qualify for the election, the 62-year-old renounced his French citizenship, highlighting his commitment to an active political role in his homeland.
Tidjane Thiam Announces Candidacy for Ivory Coast Presidency
Tidjane Thiam Announces Candidacy for Ivory Coast Presidency
Former Credit Suisse CEO sets sights on presidential position in upcoming Ivorian elections, marking his return to politics.
Although his business acumen is well recognized, Thiam’s relative obscurity among Ivorians poses a considerable hurdle according to political analysts, necessitating an effective campaign strategy as he approaches the October election. Meanwhile, the ruling RHDP party has yet to announce their candidate, although there is speculation surrounding the current president, Alassane Ouattara, potentially seeking a fourth term. With some notable political figures barred from running, including former president Laurent Gbagbo, the political landscape is shifting.
Thiam’s journey is marked by distinct accomplishments and controversies. Notably, he was the first Ivorian to gain admission to France’s prestigious Polytechnique engineering school, transitioning into a political role as planning minister before a coup ousted his party from power. His transition into business saw him break boundaries, becoming the UK's first black CEO of a FTSE 100 company with Prudential, although his later resignation from Credit Suisse followed a spying scandal – an allegation he denies.
Thiam's connections within West African political spheres are significant; he is the great-nephew of the first Ivorian President, Félix Houphouët-Boigny, and his uncle has served as a prime minister in Senegal, indicating a deep-rooted familial presence in the region’s governance.
As the Ivorian public prepares for the election, the dynamics surrounding Thiam's candidacy are being closely monitored, amid discussions of leadership continuity and the prospect of a pivotal political change in the country.
Follow further updates on the news from the African continent on BBC Africa’s social media channels.
Thiam’s journey is marked by distinct accomplishments and controversies. Notably, he was the first Ivorian to gain admission to France’s prestigious Polytechnique engineering school, transitioning into a political role as planning minister before a coup ousted his party from power. His transition into business saw him break boundaries, becoming the UK's first black CEO of a FTSE 100 company with Prudential, although his later resignation from Credit Suisse followed a spying scandal – an allegation he denies.
Thiam's connections within West African political spheres are significant; he is the great-nephew of the first Ivorian President, Félix Houphouët-Boigny, and his uncle has served as a prime minister in Senegal, indicating a deep-rooted familial presence in the region’s governance.
As the Ivorian public prepares for the election, the dynamics surrounding Thiam's candidacy are being closely monitored, amid discussions of leadership continuity and the prospect of a pivotal political change in the country.
Follow further updates on the news from the African continent on BBC Africa’s social media channels.
