Ivory Coast’s ex-first lady cleared to contest presidential election

Ivory Coast’s former First Lady Simone Gbagbo, 76, is among five candidates cleared for the upcoming presidential election, challenging incumbent President Alassane Ouattara, 83. The disqualification of key rivals, including her ex-husband Laurent Gbagbo, has raised concerns about election legitimacy and stability, while her candidacy represents a significant milestone for women’s political representation in the country.

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