DEMOCRATISATION OF POLITCAL PARTIES IN CÔTE D'IVOIRE: REALITY OR MYTH

This study examines the democratisation of political parties in Côte d'Ivoire, focusing on three major parties: PDCI(Parti Democratique Côte d'Ivoire), RHDP(Rally of Houphouetistis for Democracy and Peace) and FPI(Ivorian Popular Front). Content analysis was used to assess organizational democracy, internal stability and their impact on democratic challenges. The findings indicate low organizational democracy and stability. They also have a weak democratic culture, which affects their internal dynamics. Obstacles to democracy include poor succession planning, inadequate finances, aging leaders, restrictions on opposition parties, undemocratic practices and opaque internal workings. It is important to note that the study's findings are specific to the three selected parties and may not apply to all political parties in Côte d'Ivoire.