A former media executive who turned to politics, he acted as a negotiator and intermediary between warring factions during a prolonged civil war in the west African country from the early two thousands.

The 56 year old was also a close Ouattara ally and was picked to be prime minister in July 2020 following the sudden death of his predecessor Amadou Gon Coulibaly.

On Twitter.

Ouattara described Bakayoko as a great statesman, a model for our youth and a personality of great generosity and exemplary loyalty.

Ouattara said Bakayoko had died of cancer.

He was flown to France on February 18th for medical checks and later to Freiburg in Germany.