Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Abidjan (Fides Service)-“Perhaps we are back to where we started. The peace agreement has been practically annulled” say local Fides sources in Abidjan, economic capital of Ivory Coast. “The national unity interim government no longer exists since ministers walked, the supporters of President Laurent Gbagbo are increasingly aggressive, in the north there is fighting although who is fighting has still to be ascertained. In these circumstances it is almost impossible for the peace process to continue ” say Fides sources.
A peace agreement signed in France in January 2003 ended the civil war which had raged since September 2002. Since then the country has been divided into two zones, one controlled by the troops loyal to President Gbagbo and the other in the hands of the New Forces rebels. The agreement was that President Laurent Gbagbo would complete his mandate and a national unity government composed of all parties would prepare for elections ‘credible and transparent’ in 2005.
“In Abidjan there is tension. Bands of armed youths attack Europeans who are warned not to leave the house” say Fides sources. Yesterday June 7 young protesters threw stones and burned tires in front of the French embassy. In the north there has been fighting between government troops and militia despite the presence of French troops on the border line between the government controlled area and that of the New Forces rebels”. At least five people are reported to have been killed but according to Fides sources “the death toll is higher”. Helicopters from Abidjan fired on rebel areas wounding at least 12 men.
In Ivory Coast besides French peace keepers a UN force is also being deployed. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 8/6/2004, righe 27 parole 336)
