Ivorian President Ouattara Appoints Younger As Brother Defence Minister

Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara has appointed his younger brother, Tiéné Birahima Ouattara as Defence Minister to replace Patrick Achi who has been confirmed as the country’s Prime Minister.

Secretary General of the Ivorian Presidency Abdourahmane Cissé, had announced that The President of the Republic has signed a decree appointing members of the government. State Minister of Defence: Mr Tiéné Birahima Ouattara.

The Ivorian president is on the verge of forming his new government and the appointment of young Ouattara comes a month after Ouattara’s party won the legislative elections.

According to media reports, the presidency is looking to make room for young people in his government and on several occasions, the President has spoken of his intention to create a generational renewal.

Currently Ivourian government has 41 ministers and six secretaries of state but there is speculation that the staff strength will be reduced.

The sudden demise of former Prime Minister, Hamed Bakayoko on March 10, has reportedly shaken the political landscape in Ivory Coast.