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The overthrowing of the Bedié regime by the military has not done away with the problem of “ ivoirité,” or the struggle over Ivoirian national identity, which is rooted in processes of the historical long-term. The bitter nature of debates over the constitution is indicative of the difficulties involved in agreeing over the definition of citizenship. This article suggests that these controversies are doubtless part of a “democratic” debate over the question, “who constitutes ‘the people.’” But it also highlights the risks of ethno-nationalist movements that are rooted in and foment serious dissensions between the North and the South.