Ivorian Prime Minister Hamed Bakayoko is currently in France receiving medical treatment, his office disclosed on Friday in a social media post.

The statement did not state the nature of the illness and when exactly he is expected to return to the country.

"The Ivorian Prime Minister, Hamed Bakayoko, has been staying since Thursday, February 18 in Paris (France) for health reasons.

"The Head of Government will carry out a series of medical analysis there. He should then take a rest before heading to Abidjan."

Bakayoko, who also doubles a Defense Minister, had contracted and recovered from coronavirus early last year. His trip abroad for medical treatment brings back into the spotlight the phenomenon of African leaders engaging in medical tourism.

His predecessor Amadou Gon Coulibaly also used to seek treatment in Paris. He died there last year whiles away on medical leave. He was subsequently flown back for burial.

Coulibaly's death forced incumbent Alassane Ouattara to seek a controversial term in office in hotly contested polls late last year. Upon winning the boycotted poll, Ouattara reappointed Bakayoko as Prime Minister and head of government.

#Primature
Le Premier Ministre ivoirien, Hamed Bakayoko, séjourne depuis le jeudi 18 février à Paris (France) pour des raisons de santé.

Le Chef du gouvernement y effectuera une série d'analyses médicales. Il devrait par la suite observer un repos avant de rejoindre Abidjan. pic.twitter.com/UfvKPhOfz2

— Primature Côte d'Ivoire (@primatureci) February 19, 2021