By Redaction ARPS with Africanews and Others
A military parade was held in Bouaké, the Ivory Coast, to commemorate the nation’s 65th anniversary of independence, with President Alassane Ouattara in attendance as he pursues a contentious effort for a fourth term.
The event featured military involvement from France, the United States, and Morocco, underscoring the Ivory Coast’s alliance with Western nations, particularly as other West African countries distance themselves from French influence.
Although France withdrew its last military base in February, it continues to have a close partnership with Ouattara, who has been criticized for altering the constitution to permit extended terms.
Tidjane Thiam, his principal opponent, was disqualified from running due to issues related to dual citizenship. A march that supporters of Thiam planned in Abidjan has been rescheduled to take place this coming Saturday.
Read more at: Ivory Coast marks 65th independence anniversary with military parade | Africanews
