Ivory Coast’s Democratic Party Backs Ex-Credit Suisse Boss Tidjane Thiam for Presidency

France24

Tidjane Thiam, the former CEO of Credit Suisse and one of Africa’s most prominent global finance figures, has officially secured the presidential ticket of the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI) ahead of the country’s 2025 general election. The party announced that Thiam received a near-unanimous vote of confidence—marking a powerful return to national politics for the Ivorian technocrat.

Thiam’s candidacy is significant for both the party and the country. After decades in international banking and public service, including a stint as Côte d’Ivoire’s minister of planning in the 1990s, Thiam brings to the table a reputation for competence, global exposure, and reform-minded leadership. His election as party flagbearer signals the PDCI’s intent to challenge the long-standing dominance of the ruling RHDP party with a candidate who embodies both credibility and change.

This development comes at a time when many Ivorians are increasingly concerned about corruption, youth unemployment, and post-conflict national cohesion. Thiam’s supporters argue that his international experience could help reposition Côte d’Ivoire on a more inclusive and transparent path.

If elected, he would be among the rare few to transition from leading a major global financial institution to governing a country—putting both his leadership and policy skills to a real-world test back home.