The Ivorian judicial system has sentenced Damana Adia, known as Pickass, and Koua Justin, both officials of the PPA-CI, to ten years in prison without the possibility of bail. This ruling stems from charges of public disorder and incitement to insurrection linked to the pre-election violence that occurred in 2020.
Tchéïdé Gervais, the Secretary General of Laurent Gbagbo’s party, has denounced this decision as a political strategy by the government aimed at undermining their faction.
Gervais expressed his indignation over what he perceives as targeted sentences designed to suppress prominent members of Gbagbo’s camp. He asserted that the PPA-CI, which endorses Gbagbo as its candidate for the upcoming presidential election in October 2025, views the ruling party’s actions as an attempt to eliminate any potential challengers to its quest for sustained power.
In contrast, the Ivorian public prosecutor maintains that the timing of the trial for Mr. Damana Pickass, Koua Justin, and their co-defendants, which coincides with the lead-up to the 2025 presidential election, was not influenced by the electoral timeline—a claim that the PPA-CI contests.
Gervais also mentioned that the defense attorneys for the convicted individuals have lodged an appeal, and the party intends to rally support for them, calling on the government to cease the imprisonment of PPA-CI officials.
He reiterated their commitment to preparing for Laurent Gbagbo’s presidential campaign. Furthermore, the secretary general confirmed that the opposition is working together to counter a potential candidacy from President Alassane Ouattara, although discussions regarding a unified opposition candidate are premature.
It is noteworthy that the former Ivorian president is currently facing a conviction.
