Felix Houphouet-Boigny vs Halimah Yacob

Houphouet-Boigny was elected as a deputy for Ivory Coast to the French Constituent Assembly. He became a leading African voice in French politics, advocating for colonial reforms.

Houphouet-Boigny founded the African Democratic Rally (RDA), a pan-African political party that coordinated anti-colonial movements across French West Africa. The RDA became a major force in decolonization.

Houphouet-Boigny implemented policies that led to rapid economic growth, based on agricultural exports (cocoa, coffee) and foreign investment. Ivory Coast became one of Africa's most prosperous countries.

Houphouet-Boigny became the first President of independent Ivory Coast. He maintained close economic and political ties with France, pursuing a pro-Western foreign policy and capitalist development.

Houphouet-Boigny established a one-party state under the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast (PDCI). He suppressed political opposition, controlled the media, and maintained power through patronage and repression.

Houphouet-Boigny commissioned the construction of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro, modeled on St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. The project cost $300 million and became the largest church in the world.

Halimah Yacob served as the Speaker of the Parliament of Singapore from January 14, 2013, to August 7, 2017. She was the first female speaker in Singapore's history, overseeing parliamentary proceedings and debates.

Halimah Yacob was elected as the 8th President of Singapore on September 13, 2017, becoming the first female president in the country's history. She was declared the sole eligible candidate after changes to the eligibility criteria, sparking debate.

Halimah Yacob resigned from the People's Action Party and as Speaker of Parliament on August 7, 2017, to contest the presidential election. This was required by the Constitution for candidates to be independent.