Ivory Coast’s ruling party has officially nominated President Alassane Ouattara to seek re-election for a third term.

Mr Ouattara on Wednesday asked for more time to consider the nomination. He would announce his decision in a speech to the nation on 6 August.

Earlier this year, the 76-year-old Ouattara spoke of paving way for a new generation to lead.

His prime minister and preferred successor Amadou Gon Coulibaly died of cardiac arrest earlier this month.

The opposition has been against the president’s push for a third term.

Ivory Coast is due to hold elections on 31 October and the electoral commission has promised a fair election.