Issue of constitution review to feature in Cote d'Ivoire's political dialogue

The issue of constitutional review is expected to feature in the dialogue between Cote d'Ivoire's opposition and ruling parties, which began on Tuesday in Abidjan.

Speaking during the start of the meeting, Cote d'Ivoire President Alassane Ouattara said the forum will enable various groups to give their opinions which will inform the process of adopting a new Constitution for the Third Republic.

Besides the opposition, the consultations have equally brought together traditional leaders, religious leaders and civil society organizations.

Ouattara said after the consultative forum, recommendations will be submitted to the committee of experts who will prepare a document that will be examined by the cabinet.

The final document will then be sent to parliament, before a referendum on the same can be organized.

"We shall conduct a constitutional referendum between the month of September and October, and conduct legislative elections between November and December this year," he said.

On several occasions, Cote d'Ivoire's ruling party and opposition parties have met to discuss issues of great national importance.

After a recent cabinet meeting, Government Spokesman Bruno Kone said "the resumption of dialogue was an expression of Ouattara's desire to see every section of Cote d'Ivoire's society, especially the opposition, contribute to national development." Enditem