Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Abidjan (Agenzia Fides)- The long awaited process of disarmament, demobilisation and social reintegration of combatants in Ivory Coast will begin on 22 December. This was announced by General Philippe Mangou, Ivory Coast army Chief, at the end of a meeting between commanders of the army and commanders of the New Forces, former rebel militia groups which control the north of Ivory Coast, and which, following agreements reached in Ouadougou (see Fides 5 March and 20 November 2007 ) will be progressively integrated into the regular army.
“We have worked in a spirit of fraternity” said general Mangou. “In the peace process the troops on both sides are perhaps ahead of politicians ” local Church sources told Fides. “Road blocks are manned by joint patrols of army and New Forces troops. When we speak to the troops they say it is all over and everyone wants peace”.
On 22 December the combatants will move towards agreed meeting points for operations of disarmament and then the procedure of insertion into the ranks of the army or civil society.
“December 22 is a date between the Muslim feast of Tabaski, or Aid el Adhi and the Christian feast of Christmas. Perhaps the choice of date was symbolic to underline a return to peace and national unity” the local sources told Fides. “The fact that voices of people who provoked ethnic disagreement are no longer heard on television is a sign that peace is making progress and that a turning point has been reached ” the sources told Fides.
“The path to peace is still long and the people need to be encouraged and to find new trust. President Laurent Gbagbo and Premier Guillaume Soro, former New Forces leader are determined to lead the country out of the crisis. The President's visit to Korhogo in the far north was a sign and was a success. Now the city of Man, in the west is expecting a visit from the President as a sign of its return to the rest of the national territory. We are confident, while still a little cautious, with regard to the future of Ivory Coast” the sources conclude. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 18/12/2007 righe 28 parole 402)
