The president of the African Peoples’ Party–Côte d’Ivoire (PPA–CI), Laurent Gbagbo, has terminated the duties of Dr. Ahoua Don Mello as Executive Vice-President in charge of the Lacs District and the Promotion of Pan-Africanism, according to a decision signed by the party leader on July 31, 2025.

This dismissal follows Dr. Ahoua Don Mello’s announcement of his so-called "precautionary candidacy" for the October 2025 presidential election.

Article 2 of the decision states that Dr. Ahoua Don Mello will be replaced by the President of the Strategic and Political Council, Justin Katinan Koné, who will now also oversee the Promotion of Pan-Africanism.

Article 3 indicates that Jean Gervais Tcheidé, the party’s Secretary General, will temporarily take over the Executive Vice-Presidency for the Lacs District.

Dr. Ahoua Don Mello, the now former Executive Vice-President of PPA–CI, held a press conference on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at the Abidjan Press House.

During this media exchange, he solemnly announced his candidacy for the October 2025 presidential election, declaring:

"I remain Laurent Gbagbo."

Moreover, Mr. Don Mello assured that his "precautionary candidacy" would become void if his mentor, Laurent Gbagbo, is deemed eligible to run in the 2025 presidential election.