Dembélé Lassina, a celebrated former Ivorian footballer and influential political figure, has died in Abidjan on Friday, 8 August 2025.
His sudden passing comes just days after the nation marked its 65th Independence Day, casting a shadow over the country’s recent celebrations.
Lassina, widely regarded as one of the key figures in Ivorian football during his playing years, made a name for himself at ASEC Mimosas, one of the country’s most prestigious clubs.
His performances at the club level earned him a place in the national team, the Elephants, where he became known for his tenacity, leadership, and deep commitment to the Ivorian shirt.
His presence on the pitch left a lasting impression, earning him admiration from fans and peers alike.
Following the end of his football career, Lassina transitioned into public service, dedicating his life to community development and national progress.
He was elected mayor of Adjamé, one of Abidjan’s most densely populated communes, serving from 1985 until 1996. During his tenure, he oversaw key urban development initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and public services in the area.
His commitment to public life extended to the national level. From 1990 to 1999, Lassina served as a member of the Ivorian National Assembly, where he represented his constituents with determination and integrity.
Colleagues in parliament have remembered him as a principled voice who always placed the interests of his community at the forefront of his work.
Lassina also remained deeply involved in sport beyond his playing days. Between 1987 and 1993, he held the position of third president of the Amicale des Anciens Footballeurs et Autres Athlètes de l’ASEC Mimosas (AAFAAM), an association dedicated to supporting former athletes.
Later, he led the Comité des Sages, where his wisdom and moral authority were instrumental in guiding decisions and upholding the values of Ivorian sport.
The Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) confirmed his death, expressing profound sorrow at the loss of a figure who contributed so richly to both the sporting and political life of the country.
Tributes have poured in from across the nation, with former teammates, political colleagues, and fans remembering Lassina’s dual legacy on and off the field.
His death marks the end of an era for many who saw in him a bridge between sports and public service, a man who carried his passion for football into a lifelong commitment to community and national development.
Dembélé Lassina is survived by his family, who have yet to release details regarding funeral arrangements. The nation continues to pay tribute to a figure whose contributions have helped shape both Ivorian football and the political landscape over several decades.
As Côte d’Ivoire reflects on his life and service, the memory of Dembélé Lassina remains etched in the hearts of many — not just as a footballer or politician, but as a dedicated servant of his country.
