Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Abidjan (Agenzia Fides) - “Despite the always regrettable loss of life and despite the tension before and during the vote, we can say that the ballot for the presidential election was fairly positive,” Fides was told by a source within the local Church on the Côte d'Ivoire, where yesterday, 28 November, the second round of presidential elections took place (see Fides 26/11/2010). The two candidates are incumbent President Laurent Gbagbo and Alassane Ouattara.
“According to our information in the clashes which occurred in various parts of the country, particularly in the west, at least seven people were killed and 20 were injured,” the source told Fides.
“The Ivory Coast awaits the first results which should be announced this evening by the Independent Electoral Commission. The outgoing President, Laurent Gbagbo, imposed a five day curfew, starting on the eve of the vote, 27 November, until 1 December.”
“On Saturday, 27 November, a Mass was celebrated for the peaceful conduct of the elections, followed by an interfaith prayer which was attended by representatives of the major faiths in the Country. Moreover, the group of religious leaders called for peace during times of prayer and fasting on the eve of the ballots on 24, 25 and 26 November. The Government expressed appreciation for the way in which religious leaders are trying to promote national reconciliation,” says the Fides source.
On 27 November the two candidates had launched a last appeal to their supporters to avoid violence and that they undertook to accept the outcome of the vote. But this did not prevent the occurrence of some clashes and the revival of mutual accusations of fraud and intimidation. The number of voters (65-70% of those registered to vote) was lower than in the first round, when 83% of those eligible voted. (LM) (Agenzia Fides 29/11/2010)
