Voting is progressing steadily at the Ivorian Embassy in Accra, where nationals of the world’s leading cocoa-producing country are casting their ballots to elect a new president.
A total of 1,432 registered Ivorian voters in Ghana are expected to exercise their franchise at the embassy in Osu. Four polling stations have been set up in Accra, with an additional center designated in Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital.
Voters arrived in pairs and small groups to cast their ballots in the exercise, which commenced at 8:30 a.m. Polls are expected to close at 6:30 p.m., after which sorting and counting will begin.
Security presence at the embassy remains moderate, but officers on duty are ensuring a peaceful and orderly process.
Many voters say they are hopeful of electing a leader capable of transforming Côte d’Ivoire’s economy and improving the fortunes of the cocoa sector.
Addressing the media, Ivorian Ambassador to Ghana, Assiélou Félix Tanon, urged his compatriots to adhere to laid-down protocols and conduct themselves peacefully throughout the process.
Incumbent President Alassane Ouattara is seeking a controversial fourth term, having first come to power in 2010 after a violent electoral dispute. He faces stiff competition from four other candidates.
At the embassy, a group of supporters openly canvassed votes for President Ouattara. Their leader, Kanté Bamen, justified their actions, saying the incumbent deserves another term for stabilizing the country and improving national security.
By Stanley Nii Blewu
