Ahoua Don-Mello and allies set to establish new political party in Côte d’Ivoire

Abidjan, July 13, 2026 – Dr. Ahoua Don-Mello, who previously sought the presidency in October 2025, along with his core associates, has embarked on a significant new phase of political engagement. They have initiated the process to form a new political party, a decision reached during a plenary assembly held in Abidjan on Saturday, July 11, 2026.

Gathered with supporters and members of Mr. Don-Mello’s presidential campaign organizing committee, participants overwhelmingly endorsed a resolution to establish this new political entity.

This pivotal decision stems from the findings of a dedicated reflection commission, which had been tasked with exploring organizational prospects for the movement. The commission’s report, presented to the assembly, strongly advocated for the creation of a structured political party to solidify and sustain the initiatives spearheaded by the former presidential hopeful.

Consequently, the assembly entrusted Dr. Ahoua Don-Mello with the mandate to oversee the formation of this new political force and to organize the forthcoming “Congress of Pioneers.” This congress is envisioned as the foundational event for the nascent party.

This undertaking signifies the evolution of the former candidate’s campaign team into a formal political organization. The party aims to position itself as a dynamic force for policy proposals, national unity, and political alternative. It will champion core values such as democracy, social justice, robust governance, solidarity, meritocracy, and, crucially, national sovereignty.

Following the proceedings, Dr. Ahoua Don-Mello expressed his gratitude to the attendees for their confidence, subsequently outlining the broad strategic directions of the political project. He also extended an invitation to all patriotic, progressive, democratic, and sovereignist forces to join this endeavor, with the shared goal of building a Côte d’Ivoire that is “more just, more prosperous, more united, and fully sovereign.”

“Preparatory work for the Congress of Pioneers will commence immediately, with the date for this crucial gathering to be announced promptly,” it was confirmed.

Dr. Ahoua Don-Mello had previously been a vice-president of the Parti des peuples africains-Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI) before his removal from the party, subsequently contesting the October 2025 presidential election as an independent candidate.