Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara, has confirmed that he will seek a fourth term in the country's upcoming October elections, a move that has reignited debate around democratic norms and succession in West Africa.

At 83, Ouattara says his health is not in question and that his experience is needed to navigate economic and security challenges.

But critics argue this bid undermines earlier promises to step aside for a new generation.

To unpack the implications, is Paul Melly, Consulting Fellow with the Africa Programme at Chatham House in London....