Abidjan witnessed a significant political development recently as Dr. Ahoua Don-Mello, a prominent figure and former presidential hopeful in the October 2025 elections, along with his key associates, announced their decision to establish a new political party. This pivotal move follows a comprehensive plenary assembly held in Abidjan on Saturday, July 11, 2026, marking a new chapter in their political journey.

During the gathering, attended by numerous sympathizers and members of Mr. Don-Mello’s presidential campaign organizing committee, participants overwhelmingly endorsed a resolution to form this new political entity. This collective decision underscores a shared vision for future political engagement in Côte d’Ivoire.

The resolution emerged from the detailed findings of a reflection commission, which had been tasked with exploring the strategic organizational pathways for the movement. The commission’s report, presented to the assembly, strongly advocated for the creation of a structured political party. This step is deemed essential to solidify and ensure the long-term impact of the initiatives spearheaded by the former presidential candidate.

Consequently, the assembly formally entrusted Dr. Ahoua Don-Mello with the mandate to steer the formation process of this nascent political force. He is also charged with orchestrating the forthcoming “Pioneers’ Congress,” which is anticipated to serve as the foundational event for the future party.

This initiative signifies a strategic transformation, evolving the former candidate’s campaign team into a robust political organization. The emerging party aims to distinguish itself as a driving force for innovative proposals, national unity, and democratic alternation. Its core principles will be rooted in democracy, social justice, transparent governance, solidarity, meritocracy, and the unwavering commitment to national sovereignty.

Following the proceedings, Dr. Ahoua Don-Mello expressed profound gratitude to the participants for their trust and confidence. He then outlined the broad strategic directions for the political project. Furthermore, he extended an earnest invitation to all patriotic, progressive, democratic, and sovereignist elements across the nation to unite with this endeavor, aspiring to forge a Côte d’Ivoire that is “more just, more prosperous, more united, and fully sovereign.”

Preparatory activities for the Pioneers’ Congress are set to commence without delay, with the specific date for this landmark event to be announced in due course.

It is noteworthy that Ahoua Don-Mello, who previously served as vice-president of the Parti des peuples africains-Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI), had been a candidate in the October 2025 presidential election prior to his removal from the party.