Quitte Le Pouvoir

Tiken Jah Fakoly's song 'Quitte Le Pouvoir' is a powerful anthem calling for political change and the resignation of long-standing leaders. The repetitive refrain 'Quitte le pouvoir' (Leave the power) serves as a direct and urgent plea to those in power to step down. Fakoly, a renowned Ivorian reggae artist known for his politically charged lyrics, uses this song to voice the frustrations of the people who have been suffering under ineffective and corrupt governance for decades.

The lyrics highlight the stagnation and lack of progress in the country, with lines like 'Ca fait trop longtemps que tu nous fais perdre le temps' (It's been too long that you've been wasting our time) and 'Depuis quarante ans tu refuses de foutre le camp' (For forty years you refuse to leave). Fakoly criticizes the leaders for clinging to power despite being 'mal élu' (badly elected) and for causing widespread suffering and discontent among the populace. The song's urgency is underscored by the repeated warnings that the situation could lead to serious consequences if not addressed.

Awady's verse adds another layer to the song, emphasizing the daily struggles of the people, from living in stress to lacking basic necessities like bread. The verse paints a vivid picture of the dire situation, with lines like 'Pas de boulot, pas de job, tu nous pourris le temps' (No work, no job, you're wasting our time) and 'L'avenir fout le camp, tu nous pourris le temps' (The future is ruined, you're wasting our time). The call for peaceful change is clear, as Awady urges the leaders to 'sors dans le calme' (leave peacefully) without violence or bloodshed.

'Quitte Le Pouvoir' is not just a song but a rallying cry for justice, accountability, and a better future. It reflects the deep-seated frustrations of a people yearning for change and the hope that new leadership can bring about the much-needed transformation in their lives.