The Action for the Protection of Human Rights in Côte d’Ivoire (APDH-CI) has called on authorities to reconsider the recent ban on peaceful marches and demonstrations announced by the National Security Council (CNS), warning that the restrictions risk undermining fundamental freedoms just days ahead of the presidential election.
In a press release published on October 2, APDH-CI stressed that freedom of assembly and demonstration is protected under the Ivorian Constitution, as well as by multiple international treaties ratified by the country.
The organisation warned that any limitations on these rights must be “regulated, necessary, and proportionate.”
Denis Abraham Yorobat, president of APDH-CI, urged the government to prioritise the supervision of demonstrations rather than prohibiting them outright.
He emphasised that lifting the ban would allow political actors and civil society to exercise their rights while maintaining public order.
“The authorities should immediately lift the measure announced by the CNS, guarantee the effective exercise of rights of political actors and civil society, and promote inclusive political dialogue,” the statement read.
APDH-CI highlighted that these measures are essential not only for protecting civil liberties but also for safeguarding peace, social cohesion, and the credibility of the electoral process.
The organisation cautioned that a failure to respect these freedoms could exacerbate tensions in an already charged political climate.
The upcoming presidential election, scheduled for later this month, has heightened concerns over maintaining democratic standards and ensuring a fair and transparent process.
Observers note that restrictions on public demonstrations could undermine confidence in the electoral system and fuel public discontent.
By advocating for a balance between security and fundamental rights, APDH-CI’s intervention underscores the importance of protecting democratic freedoms even in periods of heightened political sensitivity.
The group’s call reflects broader concerns among civil society organisations that the government uphold constitutional guarantees while managing electoral security.
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