posted 22nd May 2025
Côte d’Ivoire Quashes Coup Rumours as President Ouattara Chairs Cabinet Meeting
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – President Alassane Ouattara dispelled rumours of a military coup by chairing a council of ministers meeting at the presidential palace in Abidjan on Wednesday, the Ivorian presidency confirmed. The statement, accompanied by photographs of Ouattara and cabinet members, reaffirmed the stability of the West African nation.
False claims of a coup circulated rapidly on social media platforms, including X, Facebook, and TikTok, while the government meeting took place. One X user alleged that Ouattara had been killed following a supposed military takeover on Tuesday, further claiming that internet access in Côte d’Ivoire was disrupted. On Facebook, approximately 9,700 users engaged in discussions about the alleged coup, according to the platform’s metrics.
The rumours also falsely claimed that Lassina Doumbia, the chief of army staff, had died. However, Ivorian journalists swiftly debunked these reports. Christelle Kouamé, an Abidjan-based journalist and member of the National Union of Journalists of Côte d’Ivoire, told The Cable, “There is no coup in Côte d’Ivoire. The country is stable.” She highlighted Ouattara’s recent attendance at the Africa CEO Forum and Wednesday’s council of ministers meeting, adding, “It is fake news. People do what they want with the internet.”
During the cabinet meeting, officials discussed critical issues, including diversifying electricity sources and ensuring adequate housing for citizens. The government’s focus on these priorities underscores its commitment to development amid unfounded speculation.
Coup rumours have become a recurring issue in West Africa, where political instability and weakened democratic institutions have fuelled public distrust. Countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Guinea have experienced successful military takeovers in recent years, heightening regional anxieties. Côte d’Ivoire, however, remains stable as it prepares to host the African Development Bank’s (AfDB) annual meetings next week, where a new president will be elected to succeed Akinwumi Adesina.
The Ivorian presidency urged citizens to rely on verified information and dismiss unconfirmed reports. As Côte d’Ivoire continues its preparations for the AfDB meetings, the government’s swift response has reaffirmed its control and commitment to national stability.
