Abidjan (Fides Service) - Europeans in Ivory Coast, French citizens especially, have been warned to stay indoors" a local source told Fides Service on 29 January. "Many are preparing to leave the country and a first French group is about to depart. French helicopters patrol the skies over Abidjan to control areas with the largest numbers of protesters against the peace accord signed by government and rebels in France last week. Hundreds, perhaps thousands have taken up position in front of the French army headquarters. The protesters are particularly angered by the fact that according to the agreement the future minister of Defence will come from the rebel ranks; the army has also said it will not take orders from a former rebel.
The situation could degenerate into an ethnic conflict of vast proportions. There are concerning reports of ethnic clashes only 80 km from Abidjan. Unfortunately some missionaries have been attacked and threatened in this climate of violence. Thank goodness there are always a few Christians among the rioters who recognise the missionaries and the situation is resolved peacefully. Nevertheless despite the difficulties missionaries of all orders are determined to remain at their post". (Fides Service 30/1/2003)