Former Ivory Coast First Lady Simone Ehivet Gbagbo has declared her intention to run for president, marking one of the most remarkable comebacks in African politics.
Once a divisive figure and former prisoner, the 76-year-old is repositioning herself as a candidate of reconciliation, justice, and independence.
Gbagbo—once dubbed the “Iron Lady” for her hardline politics—was imprisoned after the 2010–2011 post-election crisis that left over 3,000 people dead.
She was sentenced to 20 years for crimes against humanity before being pardoned in 2018 by President Alassane Ouattara.
Now, she’s attempting to rebrand herself from a symbol of conflict to one of unity. Through her party, the Movement of Skilled Generations (MGC), founded in 2022, she advocates for social democracy, economic independence from France, and the release of political prisoners.
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On the campaign trail, Gbagbo’s message has struck a softer tone: “These elections can be won without bloodshed,” she told supporters in Gagnoa, calling for Ivorians to vote rather than fight.
Although analysts suggest her candidacy may not immediately translate into victory, it is widely viewed as an attempt to reclaim political relevance and cement her status as a key opposition leader in a race dominated by President Alassane Ouattara, who is seeking a fourth term.
Despite her renewed call for peace, Gbagbo’s bid reopens old wounds from Ivory Coast’s turbulent past. Yet for many, especially disillusioned youth, her return represents a second chance—both for herself and for a country seeking unity amid inequality and political fatigue.
