BY GILLES GNONSOUA

Cote d’Ivoire prime minister Patrick Achi on Wednesday turned in his resignation and that of his entire cabinet to President Alassane Ouattara during the weekly cabinet meeting held at the presidential palace in Abidjan. There appears to be no quarrel between the Ivorian premier and the head of state.

Contrary to what might be the first instinct of observers who are familiar with the political crisis that has shaken the West African nation over the past several years, Achi and his government’s resignation is meant to pave the way for a pre-announced shake-up of  Ouattara’s government, from its current number, 41, to around 30.

The government spokesperson said the head of state will address a joint session of the parliament next week.

In accepting the prime minister and his government’s resignation, the head of state thanked the cabinet members who will not make the next government: “You have a done a good. I am certain you will continue to serve your country in other capacities.”

The economic challenges born out of the lingering pandemic is all too obvious, so it came as no surprise when Ouattara recognized that a reduced cabinet will be more appropriate and in line with the current global economic climate. He affirmed his willingness to reduce government spending.

Achi has headed the Ivorian government since March 2021 following the demise of his predecessor, Hamed Bakayoko, who died abruptly on March 10, 2021. Bakayoko’s predecessor, Amadou Gon Coulibaly, also died abruptly on July 8, 2020 during the weekly cabinet meeting weeks upon returning from France where he received a long medical attention.