The West African Elders Forum (WAEF) Pre-Election Mediation Mission

The West African Elders Forum (WAEF) Pre-Election Mediation Mission, under the leadership of His Excellency Mr. Yayi Boni, the former President of Benin, has been warmly received in Abidjan, the economic capital of Cote d'Ivoire. The mission's objective is to facilitate dialogue and promote peaceful and credible presidential elections in October 2025.

Throughout their stay, the WAEF delegation will engage with various political stakeholders to encourage consensus-building and ensure that the electoral process contributes to the strengthening of democracy in Cote d'Ivoire and the wider West African region. The presence of such an esteemed group of elder statesmen underscores the importance of maintaining stability and fostering democratic governance in the region.

The WAEF, comprised of distinguished leaders with vast experience in conflict resolution and political transition, is an initiative of the Kofi Annan Foundation. Their mission is to support peaceful and inclusive electoral processes and offer guidance to prevent and manage any potential disputes that may arise before, during, and after the elections. The delegation's visit is a testament to the foundation's commitment to promoting peace, security, and development in West Africa.

Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (GEJ), who is also part of the delegation, emphasized the importance of the mission's work in a recent statement, highlighting the group's intention to support Cote d'Ivoire's efforts towards a harmonious and democratically robust future. The WAEF's involvement is likely to be instrumental in fostering a conducive environment for constructive political dialogue and ensuring that the 2025 presidential election in Cote d'Ivoire is a successful milestone in the country's democratic journey.

The Ivorian authorities and political actors are expected to cooperate with the WAEF mission, as their insights and recommendations are crucial for the smooth running of the elections and the continued progress of the nation. The WAEF's mediation efforts aim to reinforce the confidence of the Ivorian people in their electoral system and uphold the principles of good governance and the rule of law.

The international community, including regional bodies such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU), will be monitoring the developments in Cote d'Ivoire closely. A peaceful and fair election is essential not only for Cote d'Ivoire but also for the stability and integration of the West African subregion. The successful outcome of this mission could set a positive precedent for other countries in the region preparing for elections.

The WAEF's pre-election mission to Cote d'Ivoire is a proactive measure that demonstrates the collective willingness of West African leaders to address potential challenges before they escalate into conflicts. The mission's engagement with various stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and election management bodies, will be pivotal in identifying and addressing any concerns that may impact the election's integrity and credibility.

The WAEF delegation will likely focus on key areas such as electoral reform, voter registration, campaign finance, media freedom, and the role of security forces during the electoral period. By offering guidance and facilitating discussions on these critical issues, the WAEF hopes to mitigate tensions and contribute to a peaceful and transparent electoral process that reflects the will of the Ivorian people.

In conclusion, the arrival of the WAEF Pre-Election Mediation Mission in Abidjan signals a significant step forward in Cote d'Ivoire's preparations for the 2025 Presidential election. The mission's engagement with stakeholders and commitment to supporting democratic consolidation will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping a more stable and prosperous future for the country and the West African region as a whole.