76 year old Simone Gbagbo, the former First Lady of Côte d’Ivoire and one-time fugitive of the International Criminal Court (ICC), has declared her candidacy for the presidency in Saturday’s election challenging Alassane Ouattara, the current Ivory Coast president, who has been president since 2010.
Simone Gbagbo, popularly known as the “Iron Lady” is among those cleared to contest against incumbent President Alassane Ouattara, who is seeking a fourth term.
Simone Gbagbo’s Political Career
During the turbulent presidency of her ex-husband, Laurent Gbagbo, Simone was known as a powerful figure, wielding significant influence throughout two civil wars between 2002 and 2007 and again following the disputed 2010 election.
In 2011, the Gbagbos were arrested together after Laurent refused to concede defeat to Ouattara, sparking a conflict that claimed around 3,000 lives.
After their divorce in 2021, Simone forged a new political path, founding the Movement of Skilled Generations (MGC), a party rooted in social democratic ideals.
Analysts note her chances of winning remain slim. Historian and political commentator Arthur Banga told Reuters that Gbagbo’s new party lacks a strong grassroots base. “But she is positioning herself for the future,” especially with Laurent Gbagbo and former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam disqualified from the race.
“She will become the leader of the political opposition after these elections,” Banga said.
