France, Oct. 23 -- Women have been highly visible in Cote d'Ivoire's election campaign. They turn up at rallies, organise events and even run for president. But they remain under-represented in national politics and many hope this vote will finally open the door to real change.

Ivorians go to the polls on Saturday to choose their next president. Incumbent leader Alassane Ouattara, 83, is seeking a fourth term and faces four challengers. Two of those challengers are women.

On both the president's side and in the opposition, women have become a driving force. Some attend every meeting. Others help run campaign offices. MPs, mayors and other elected women are also involved.

Even candidates' wives, such as Henriette Gomis Billon- married t...