Abidjan’s Yopougon district disillusioned with election amid political apathy

Taxi driver Alain and others in Abidjan’s Yopougon district plan to boycott next week’s presidential election, disillusioned with Ivory Coast’s politicians. Once a stronghold for ex-president Laurent Gbagbo, Yopougon has seen a shift in political allegiance, with many residents losing faith in the current and past leaders. Gbagbo’s party is in disarray, and Gbagbo himself is barred from standing in the election.

First-time voters, especially, are focused on finding jobs rather than participating in the election, according to sociologist Severin Yao Kouame. Some former Gbagbo supporters feel disconnected from the political process, while the ruling party’s candidate, Alassane Ouattara, looks set for a fourth term. However, the lack of job opportunities and the erosion of Yopougon’s vibrant spirit under the current regime have left many feeling apathetic about the election.