Presidential candidate Jean-Louis Billon has pledged to “place Ivorians at the heart of Côte d’Ivoire’s development,” aiming to ensure that the country’s resources and wealth lead to shared prosperity.

In his political platform titled “The Côte d’Ivoire We Love,” Billon outlines a national vision focused on children’s education, massive youth employment, and women’s empowerment. His ambition is to strengthen human capital by fostering an educated, protected, and emancipated citizenry.

“Together, we move forward without leaving anyone behind. I am committed to ensuring that every Ivorian has access to the essentials: to learn, to heal, and to thrive,” he declared, emphasizing his key commitments should he be elected to the presidency.

On education, the Member of Parliament for Dabakala promises to guarantee quality education for every child. Among the proposed reforms are the introduction of English language instruction from primary school to prepare pupils for a globalized world, and the widespread integration of digital technology in the education system. To create a healthy and secure learning environment, Billon plans to strictly regulate school surroundings to protect students from alcohol, drugs, and other harmful influences. He also intends to improve teachers’ status and modernize school infrastructure nationwide.

On youth development, the CODE (Congrès Démocratique) candidate pledges to boost job creation, entrepreneurship, and digital innovation as key levers for reducing unemployment and unlocking the potential of young Ivorians.

Women also occupy a central place in his program. The former senior member of the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI) seeks to strengthen women’s economic autonomy and increase their participation in decision-making processes. His plan includes priority access for women to social protection and microcredit programs, aiming for sustainable poverty reduction.

Jean-Louis Billon’s campaign revolves around five major priorities: economic sovereignty through the strengthening of the private sector; investment in human capital with a focus on health and education; good governance marked by a stronger fight against corruption; reform of judicial and security institutions; and social cohesion and national unity.

Billon faces incumbent President Alassane Ouattara, candidate of the Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP); Henriette Adjoua Lagou of the Political Partners Group for Peace (GPP-Paix); Simone Gbagbo of the Generations Capables Movement (MGC); and independent candidate Ahoua Don Mello.