Appointed on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, by the President of the Republic, Alassane Ouattara, as Mediator of the Republic, replacing Adama Toungara, Gaoussou Touré, former minister and Governor of the Autonomous District of Denguélé, officially took the oath of office before members of the Constitutional Council on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan-Plateau.

This swearing-in ceremony, held in the presence of the Vice President, Tiémoko Meyliet Koné, the Prime Minister, Robert Beugré Mambé, and the Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Téné Birahima Ouattara, marked Gaoussou Touré’s official assumption of duties at the head of the institution, whose headquarters is located in Yamoussoukro.

In her address, the President of the Constitutional Council, Chantal Nanaba Camara, recalled the responsibilities assigned to the Mediator of the Republic.

“The Mediator of the Republic is an independent administrative authority entrusted with a vital public service mission. Indeed, this role requires impartiality, neutrality, attentiveness, patience, and creativity to help parties resolve their disputes in a fair and effective manner. Your mission is a noble one. It consists of repairing the social fabric where it has been torn and strengthening social cohesion, which is essential for harmonious and sustainable development,” she explained.

She further stated that the Mediator of the Republic may be approached by any individual or legal entity in cases involving dysfunction within a state administration, local authority, public institution, or any body entrusted with a public service mission. The Mediator may also intervene in disputes between communities or when one community feels wronged by another or by a third party.

“You may also be referred to by the President of the Republic, the President of the National Assembly, or the Senate to carry out conciliation efforts between public administration and social organizations,” she added.

Addressing Gaoussou Touré, she continued: “At the national, regional, or international level, you may be called upon to address issues of reconciliation and peace. You also have the authority to initiate action on your own whenever you believe that an individual or a group has been or may be harmed by the action or inaction of a public body. In doing so, you contribute to the promotion and protection of citizens’ rights.”