Prominent Ivorian businessman and senior PDCI member Jean-Louis Billon has officially declared his bid for the presidency, running as an Independent candidate amid growing rifts within the PDCI party.

On Thursday, Billon submitted his nomination documents to the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI), signaling his readiness to contest the upcoming election.

He emphasized that empowering young people with greater opportunities and responsibilities will be his top priority if elected, promising a fresh approach to leadership in Côte d’Ivoire.

Billon’s move marks a significant moment in the country’s political landscape, especially as the PDCI faces internal divisions ahead of the polls.