In Côte d'Ivoire, the public prosecutor has requested a three-year suspended sentence and a monetary fine against Calice Yapo, the executive secretary of the Democratic Party of Côte d'Ivoire-African Democratic Rally (PDCI-RDA). This legal action stems from allegations that Yapo incited public disorder by challenging the annulment of a parliamentary election in which the PDCI's candidate, Hervé Alliali, was declared defeated by a narrow margin. The trial took place on February 27, 2026, at the Abidjan First Instance Court.

The controversy began when the Constitutional Council of Côte d'Ivoire annulled the election results of the 2026 legislative race held on January 9, which was deemed to be marred by irregularities. The decision was pivotal in altering the political landscape, particularly for the PDCI party, which has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including internal divisions and electoral setbacks. The allegations against Yapo highlight the tense relationship between the party and the ruling government, further exacerbating the existing friction in Ivorian politics.

The implications of Yapo's trial and the prosecutor's recommendation are significant, as they may influence public opinion and the PDCI's positioning within the opposition. Should Yapo be convicted, it could lead to increased tensions between the opposition and the government, as well as affect the party's strategy leading into future elections. This case is emblematic of broader challenges faced by opposition parties in Côte d'Ivoire, particularly regarding their ability to contest electoral results and maintain their political relevance in a landscape often marked by conflict and instability.