June 28, 20071. Libyan leader Muammar Kadhafi’s visit to Abidjan is the major story in today’s Ivorian press. 2. “Libyan leader’s visit in Cote d’Ivoire: Kadhafi disembarks with 10 planes, a limousine and several 4X4 vehicles,” writes L’Inter, an independent daily. Kadhafi says it’s his “dream to bring life to his African government project. He will defend and promote that project during the upcoming summit in Accra. During his meeting yesterday with the Ivorian youth, Kadhafi said that Cote d’Ivoire is victim of a plot, he protested how Westerners treated Africans, paid tribute to President Gbagbo and Prime Minister Soro, and invited African leaders to join him in his vision for a “United-States of Africa.” 3. “Kadhafi resurrects the spirit of Sekou Touré and Lumumba” says the banner headline running across Nord-Sud Quotidien, a daily close to the opposition. At a meeting in the Cultural Palace in Treichville, Colonel Mouammar Kadhafi attacked colonization, called for the creation of a “United-States of Africa” without borders – just like Kwamé Nkrumah, Lumumba and Sekou Touré tried to do. For him, it is the only way for Africa to regain its lost dignity. 4. “Kadhafi reveals the shady sides of the Ouagadougou Accord,” is the front-page story in 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition. The paper reports that at yesterday’s meeting the Libyan leader accused Europe of causing Africa’s misfortunes. In a report published yesterday, the NGO International Crisis Group stated the position of UN High Representative of the Elections for Cote d’Ivoire should be maintained. 5. “Kadhafi faithful to his reputation: the Libyan leader escorted by 6 planes, 70 vehicles and 450 body guards,” writes Le Front, a daily close to the New Forces. The paper reports that as soon as Zemogo Fofana resigned, maneuvering within the RDR party started to succeed him. 6. “Libyan leader attacks the West,” says a banner headline running across Soir Info, an independent daily. According to the paper, Kadhafi arrived in Abidjan with 10 planes and several 4X4 vehicles.. 7. “Kadhafi -- Europe is poor, while everything can be found in Africa,” writes l’Intelligent d’Abidjan, an independent daily. Mouammar Kadhafi, speaking to Ivorian youth leaders at the cultural palace yesterday, called for all African countries to unite and be conscious of their place in the world. 8. “Kadhafi declares, “I am proud of Laurent Gbagbo, he is a revolutionary,” is the front page story for Le Temps, a daily close to Gbagbo. During his first visit to Cote d’Ivoire, Kadhafi expressed admiration for Laurent Gbagbo and said his African tour is to sensitize and mobilize Africans in prelude of the African Union’s summit. 9. “Le Courrier d’Abidjan reports, “Kadhafi – ‘Gbagbo’s example must serve Africa’”. On his arrival yesterday in Abidjan, Kadhafi encouraged President Gbagbo to fight for the development of the African continent. 10. On another story, Le Patriote reports that Aly Coulibaly, the spokesman of RDR tells Ivorians: “If Gbagbo gives you money, take it and vote for ADO”.
June 27, 20071. Libyan leader Muammar Kadhafi’s visit to Abidjan is the major story in today’s Ivorian press, in what otherwise is a mixed bag of Page One reports. 2. The state-owned daily, Fraternite Matin, highlights "Kadhafi’s first visit to Abidjan," and suggests that "Cote d’Ivoire and Libya will strengthen their bilateral relations." According to paper, "The Ivoirian Presidency and FPI youth movement are mobilized to give the Libyan leader a rousing welcome. Under a photo of President Gbagbo and his Libyan counterpart, the paper calls the visit "a meeting of two revolutionaries." 3. Regarding the controversy over "where the Libyan leader stays while in the Ivoirian economic capital," Frat-Mat discloses that "Kadhafi and his suite won’t be lodged in a hotel -- authorities have renovated a private residence in the ambassadors’ residential area for them." 4. "Akwaba Kadhafi," writes Notre Voie, close to the ruling FPI party, calling the visit of the Libyan leader to Cote d’Ivoire, "A historic one." 5. "The Ivoirian Student Union FESCI has killed again," accuses a banner headline running across Le Nouveau Reveil, a daily close to the former PDCI-RDA party. According to the paper, "A 19-year old man was killed by the students on the Cocody Campus." 6. "Unethical – the nomination of Hooks to replace Pierre Schori," reads a front-page story in L’intelligent d’Abidjan, a privately-owned daily. Commenting on what it calls "rumors over the nomination of Aubrey Hooks to be the new UN Secretary General’s Representative in Cote d’Ivoire," the paper says it’s a plan "difficult to accept" because "from an ethical point of view, he cannot be an impartial arbiter after spending years defending the interests of his country in Cote d’Ivoire…" 7. Still on bilateral issues, a front-page story in L’inter, a privately-owned daily, reports on "An Ivoirian-American GI killed in Iraq on April 7, 2007." The paper publishes the full text of a press communiqué issued by the Embassy, including Ambassador Hooks statement that "In bringing him home to his final resting place, the American Government and people of the United States pay special tribute to Army Specialist Emolo." Soir Info, another privately-owned daily, headlines "Killed in Iraq, the body of the Ivoirian-American soldier arrives on Thursday," while the state-owned daily, Fraternite Matin, reports "After receiving honors from Ambassador Hooks, Specialist Emolo -- an Ivoirian-American soldier killed on the battlefield -- will be buried on the land of his ancestors."
June 26, 20071. While efforts are underway for the full implementation of the Ouagadougou Agreement, Cote d’Ivoire is gripped by a political fever caused by thoughts of the coming elections. But the major issue today is who succeeds the UN Secretary General’s Representative in this West African country. 2. "I won’t quit Cote d’Ivoire," the US Ambassador to Cote d’Ivoire, Aubrey Hooks, is quoted as saying by Nord-Sud Quotidien, a daily close to the opposition. On a visit to the countryside last weekend, the diplomat said: "This may be the last village I visit as an Ambassador as very soon, my mandate will end. I want to insist on this: while I’m at the end of my mandate, I’m not saying I’ll quit Cote d’Ivoire. We shall see… we shall see," reports the paper. 3. It comments, "Aubrey Hooks is still hiding his plans for any new functions in Cote d’Ivoire." It goes on, "We all know that this American diplomat is one of the probable successors to the outgoing UN Secretary General’s Representative in Cote d’Ivoire." 4. While political parties are feverish thinking about the upcoming general elections, 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition announces that, "Two heavyweights from the former ruling PDCI-RDA party are to challenge ex-Ivoirian President and leader of the party, Henri Konan Bedie." The paper describes Charles Konan Banny, the immediate past Prime Minister and Marcel Zadi Kessy – a businessman – as "two serious challengers of Bedie, who want to run for the office on the former ruling party’s ticket." 5. The paper comments, "The former ruling party is engulfed in a power struggle, as the ‘natural candidate – Bedie’ has to wrestle with other party leaders who are determined to contest the upcoming presidential elections." 6. Commenting on the "recent wave of defections" suffered by the RDR, the party of the main Ivoirian opposition leader Alassane Dramane Ouattara, Le Nouveau Reveil, a daily close to the PDCI-RDA party tells readers that, "Ouattara made some mistakes." 7. A leading member of Ouattara’s party, speaking to L’intelligent d’Abidjan, a privately-owned daily, conceded: "Yes, the party is in a hot spot." 8. In a separate development, the paper suggests that Muammar Kadhafi coming to Cote d’Ivoire is not news. The real news, it indicates, will be "where the Libyan leader stays while in the Ivoirian economic capital." 9. "The visit of the Libyan leader to Cote d’Ivoire is giving authorities a headache," comments Le Temps, a daily close to the Ivoirian leader. Regarding the purpose of Kadhafi’s tour in the region, the paper suggests that, "the Libyan leader is campaigning to get Gbagbo’s support for his plan to form the ‘United States of Africa.’" 10. A banner headline running across Le Matin d’Abidjan, another daily close to Gbagbo, says, "The Young Patriots have become the biggest victims of the Ouagadougou Agreement." According to the paper, the leader of the youth movement, Charles Ble Goude, calls the visit by two French judges to question him about November 2004 events "a provocation." 11. "In Abidjan to interrogate the young patriots’ leader, French judges return home empty-handed," writes Notre Voie, a daily close to the ruling FPI party. It calls it "another victory for the young patriots, as the two judges were investigating the November 2004 anti-French demonstrations in Cote d’Ivoire." 12. The "roars over the ranks" given to New Forces military commanders by Soro Guillaume is a front-page story in the state-owned daily Fraternite Matin. According to the paper, negotiators meeting in Ouagadougou have agreed on what the paper calls "the broad principles" in resolving the problem.
June 25, 20071. The roars over compensation that Trafigura – a Dutch oil trading company -- paid to victims of the toxic waste dumped in Abidjan in August 2006, and political fever ahead of the upcoming general elections in Cote d’Ivoire, are the major news in today’s Ivoirian newspapers. 2. With a picture of the Ivoirian main opposition leader Alassane Dramane Ouattara on its front-page, Le Patriote says, "The RDR is a big party… it will win in the forthcoming elections." The paper close to the opposition RDR -- the party of Ouattara -- tells readers that, "The leader is currently in the United States on a political campaign." 3. Ouattara, addressing a rally, is quoted as saying, "Any political party, even the incumbent one, can lose elections if they are transparent, free and fair." According to the paper, the Ivoirian opposition figure is negotiating "for the UN High Commissioner in-charge of elections in Cote d’Ivoire to remain at post." 4. "Ouattara takes campaign trail to The White House," says a banner headline carried by 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition. According to the paper, "Ouattara wants the upcoming elections to be supervised by the UN." 5. Regarding the uproar over compensation to be paid to victims of the toxic waste, the paper discloses that, "Trafigura has rejected a claim from the Ivoirian Presidency demanding an additional 250 billion CFA." The paper, which publishes the alleged "document", accuses the ruling FPI party of looking for "cash to finance its campaign in the upcoming general elections." 6. "The victims of the toxic waste denounce injustice," writes Le Front, a daily close to the New Forces. According to the paper, "Victims’ Associations reject the way the government proposes to share among them the 100 billion CFA paid by the Dutch oil company." 7. "Ouattara’s party is losing its members, as 5000 militants of the RDR join the FPI," says a front-page story in Notre Voie, a daily close to the ruling party. According to the paper, the announcement was made over the weekend at a rally led by the First Lady, Simone Ehivet Gbagbo. 8. "As the identification program has gotten back on track, here is the RDR plan designed to prevent fraud," writes Le Jour Plus, a daily close to the opposition. The paper calls Muammar Kadhafi "the true sponsor of the Ouagadougou Agreement," announces that "the Libyan leader is expected in Abidjan tomorrow as part of a working visit." Kadhafi, the paper says, is coming "to push forward the peace process." 9. Defections from the RDR party is the major story in the state-owned daily, Fraternite Matin. In a long interview, a leading member of the party tells readers that, "those who left the party have simply thrown themselves into oblivion." 10. In a separate development, the paper reports that journalists meeting in Grand-Bassam have developed "an action plan designed to fight child trafficking in Cote d’Ivoire." 11. "Bedie will be President," says a front-page story in Le Nouveau Reveil, a daily close the former ruling PDCI-RDA party. The paper was quoting party militants who gathered at a rally held over the week-end to pay "homage" to the former Ivoirian president.
June 22, 2007Distribution of money in connection with the toxic waste affair, and defections by opposition political party leaders are major stories in today’s Ivoirian press.
1. “Toxic wastes -- everything about the distribution of money, days and venues of payment” is the headline of Fraternité, the state-owned daily. According to a statement released by the President’s office yesterday, the first toxic waste claimant to be compensated will be the State of Cote d’Ivoire, followed by those who suffered economic losses, then the families of those who died, victims’s associations, and medical staff.
2. “New Forces liberate war prisoners” says a headline running across L’Inter, an independent daily. Two weeks following the release of New Forces soldiers by the Ivorian military and security forces, it’s the turn of the New Forces. This will take place on June 26 in Bouaké.
3. “Why RDR militants quit the party,” is a front-page story of Le Matin d’Abidjan, a daily close to Gbagbo. According to the paper, RDR defections are happening because the truth has finally caught up to all the lies that RDR President Ouattara always told his adherents
The paper also says that Presidents Mbeki of South Africa, Kufuor of Ghana and Blaise Compaoré of Burkina Faso will be in Bouaké on July 5 to attend the “Fire of Peace” ceremony.
4. “Supporters of Bedié et Fologo fight in Korogho," says a headline in Soir Info, an independent daily. During a PDCI member’s funeral in the Department of Korogho, Bedié and Fologo supporters clashed in the night, as neither side wanted the other to have an opportunity to show off.
5. “Elections according to international standards,” is a front-page story of Le Temps, a daily close to Gbagbo. Although elections in countries like Mali, Senegal and especially Nigeria were full of irregularities, the international community accepted the results and recognized the questionably- elected presidents.
6. “Disarming the New Forces: Mbeki, Compaoré and Gbagbo in Bouaké on July 5,” headlines le Courrier d’Abidjan, a daily close to Gbagbo. Côte d’Ivoire will pass on to the next phase in the peace process on July 5, when ex-rebels will symbolically lay down their arms at a ceremony in Bouaké.
The paper also reports two French judges are in Abidjan to question “Young Patriots” leader, Charles Blé Goudé, who organized violent demonstrations in 2002 and 2004 to protest alleged support of the rebellion by the UN and France.
7. “For their Anti-French violence, Young Patriots’ leaders threatened with international arrest warrants,” headlines 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition. A French judge -- Emmanuelle Ducos – will not leave Abidjan without questioning those who participated in the November 2004 actions against French citizens.
8. “Elections 2008 -- the opposition is heading toward disaster,” says Le Front, a daily close to the New Forces. At the approach of the 2008 elections, the opposition is ever more preoccupied with internal dissensions and division. The crossover of numerous members from the opposition to the FPI will greatly help it win the elections.
9. “UN abolishes the position of High Representative for the elections in Cote d’Ivoire; Two French judges after Koulibaly and Blé Goudé,” headlines Le Patriote, a daily close to the RDR. According to the paper, the UN will soon adopt a new resolution regarding the Ivorian crisis, one which may not take into account the Permanent Committee’s June 12 recommendation to maintain the position of High Representative for elections in Côte d’Ivoire.
June 21, 2007The continuing exodus of RDR members from their party, and Soro’s meeting with South Africa’s President Thabo Mbeki, are the major stories in today’s Ivoirian press.
1. “Mbebi and Soro make peace,” says Fraternité, the state-owned daily. Mbeki met Guillaume Soro in Cape Town yesterday, and congratulated him for the progress made in the peace process. He assured him of South Africa’s support, and accepted Soro’s invitation to come to Bouaké to attend the June 30 “Fire of Peace” ceremony at which arms will be laid down.
2. “Gbagbo attacks RDR on all fronts,” headlines 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition. In preparation for the presidential elections in 2008, Gbagbo has charged his men to attack and weaken his challengers. Alassane Ouattara, in the United States this week, reminds his adherents to be brave and “the souls of valiant republicans” have no price.
The paper reports that Soro told Mbeki the elections will take place when Ivorians are ready, and that the dates will be set by the Independent Electoral Commission. For him, the main thing in Cote d’Ivoire today is to make the peace process a success.
3. “The RDR can bounce back if…” says the banner headline running across Le Front, a daily close to the New Forces. A RDR leader who recently quit tells the paper it is the RDR’s inability to keep its promises, and/or provide the means for its members to work, that has prompted many members to leave the party.
The paper also reports that Soro, who had rejected Mbeki last November as the official mediator in the peace process, met him yesterday in South Africa to thank him for his assistance in the peace process.
4. “The RDR organizes its counterattack,” headlines Nord-Sud Quotidien, a daily close to the opposition. During a meeting at the RDR headquarters, party leaders discussed their next moves in the current political turmoil.
The youth wing of the opposition RHDP group reversed its decision not to participate in the “peace caravan.” Following a meeting with the Minister of Reconciliation, the youth wing’s leader told members “all their problems and concerns had been solved,” and they should now get involved in the caravan.
5. “Defection in RDR? “I’m staying,” says Henriette Diabaté, the secretary general and the mayor of Bouaflé,” is the front-page story of L’Inter, an independent daily. At an RDR meeting yesterday, Henriette Diabaté and the mayor of Bouaflé denied rumors that they were planning on leaving the party. They stated they are and “always will be” in the RDR. Meanwhile, Ouattara is planning to meet his supporters in the United States on June 23, but will have a tough job in finding arguments to convince them he can still win an election. 6. “Mbeki congratulates Soro, and RDR is emptying out” says Le Temps, a daily close to Gbagbo. According to the paper, the RDR party is growing smaller every day, with rival ethnic groups blaming each other for the failure of the RDR in Daloa.
7. Le Jour, a daily close to the opposition, reports that last week’s swearing-in of prefets in Bouake was “just a masquerade.”
8. “UN Special Representative for Cote d’Ivoire: Alan Doss is the big favorite,” headlines Le Patriote, a daily close to the RDR. According to the paper, Mr. Alan Doss is better placed than U.S. Ambassador Aubrey Hooks to occupy the position of UN High Representative for Cote d’Ivoire. As for the Abou Moussa, the interim Representative, he has troubled relations with President Gbagbo.
9. “Ivorian model for disarming militants is unsuitable,” writes Notre Voie, a daily close to the FPI. At a meeting yesterday about the proliferation of arms, National Assembly President Mamadou Koulibaly asked NGO directors and civil society leaders to pressure Ivorian politicians to ensure that there are open and democratic elections, and thus avoid another coup d’etat.
June 20, 2007More RDR members quitting their party, and need for UN “fair election” certification, are the major stories in today’s Ivoirian press.
1. ”Bechio Rages Against the RDR,” headlines Nord-Sud Quotidien, a daily close to the opposition. At a press conference, the diplomatic adviser to the RDR announced he was quitting the party as he wanted “nothing more to do with people who behave like crazy dogs.”
The paper also reports that a UN delegation met yesterday with President Gbagbo, Prime Minister Soro and a Burkinabe Minister. They were told there was an important role for the UN to play in organizing and certifying the elections, as this would avoid any protest.
2. “Bechio Panics and Insults,” says the banner headline running across Le Patriote, a daily close to the RDR. During his press conference, Bechio declared the RDR has become a club to the glory of one man, and he also called Le Patriote’s journalists “crazy dogs.”
3. 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition, reports Jean Jacques Bechio, the former RDR diplomatic adviser, says he was ready to face anybody in a fight over his resignation from the political party.
The UN delegation has asked Ivorian authorities to respect the dates proposed for Cote d’Ivoire’s national elections.
4. “Bechio declares war on Ouattara - If he plays with me, I will tell all,” is the front-page story in Le Courrier, a daily close to Gbagbo. The former RDR diplomatic adviser openly declared war on RDR President Ouattara at a press conference, publicly denouncing the “intolerant and exclusive club” it has become.
The paper also reports that the UN delegation will consult Burkinabe President Compaoré, the Ouagadougou Accords mediator, on important cases.
5. ”Bechio: RDR no longer a political party,” says a banner running across Le Matin d’Abidjan, a daily close to Gbagbo. Bechio has announced his resignation, stating that he would show RDR leaders what he can do to hurt them.
At the UN delegation’s press conference yesterday, they said it is not their responsibility to choose dates for the elections, but that they must be fair, free and transparent to avoid any protests afterward.
6. “Dissidents and Political Party Leaders Clash: Bedié - Dissidents are hungry; Ouattara - only idiots will leave and follow Zemogo.” says the banner headline running across Le Temps, a daily close to Gbagbo. According to the paper, former RDR diplomatic advisor Bechio wanted the party to be part of the peace process, but party leaders have taken another direction. For that reason, he left the RDR.
The paper also says that UN sanctions on the sale of arms in Cote d’Ivoire will soon be lifted, to allow the import of weapons and materials for the police.
7. “Jean Jacques Bechio tired of arrogant politicians who ‘should have never been made Ministers,’” is a front-page story of L’Intelligent d’Abidjan, an independent daily. At his press conference yesterday, Bechio threatened that if anyone from the RDR “plays” with him, he will show them how to play and Cote d’Ivoire will remember it for generations to come.
8. “Crisis within RDR, Henriette Diabaté threatens” headlines Le Front, a daily close to the New Forces.
Henriette Dagri Diabaté has hinted she will leave the RDR secretariat, which -- according to sources -- some members of the secretariat general are doing their best to make happen.
9. In L’Inter, an independent daily, reports the Burkinabe Interior Minister says that it is “UN Certification of the Elections” which will reconcile Ivorians to the results.
10. “Gbagbo Prepares for Electoral Fraud,” says a headline running across Le Jour, a daily close to the opposition. Big changes have occurred in the election process since the Ouagadougou Accord, unwelcomed changes that could open the door to electoral fraud on a big scale by President Gbagbo.
11. “Inflammatory letter from Bush reprimands Gbagbo,” says Le Nouveau Réveil, a daily close to the former ruling PDCI. In a letter sent by the Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, the paper reports President Bush explained why Cote d’Ivoire has been removed from the list of AGOA beneficiaries. For him, the eligibility of a country to join AGOA is subject to positive signs of economic development, respect for the rule of law, and progress on dealing with issues related to poverty and corruption.
June 19, 2007Henri Konan Bedié’s reaction to the Permanent Committee’s meeting in Yamoussoukro, and the swearing-in of 70 Prefets in Bouake dominate the headlines in the Ivoirian press today.
1. “The Administration deploys its Commissioners: Soro gives power back to prefets.” headlines Fraternité Matin, the state-owned daily. Yesterday, the Interior Minister swore in the prefet of Bouaké, in presence of the Prime Minister, who gave him the nomination decree signed by President Gbagbo. 70 prefets and 72 secretary generals, as well as several ministers, attended the ceremony. With Administration officials poised to return to the ex-rebel zone, the Prime Minister asked them to be agents of peace and reconciliation.
A UN Security Counsel delegation arrived yesterday in Abidjan, to show its support for the Ouagadougou Accord and to listen to Ivorians in order to better help them.
2. “The Rule of Law Returns to the New Forces Zone… 169 Officials Hit the Road” says Le Courrier d’Abidjan, a daily close to Gbagbo. The paper quotes the Prime Minister in Bouake telling government commissioners he would do everything he could to restore peace to the country.
Reporting on the UN delegation in town since yesterday, the paper quotes its leader saying they are here “to discuss with Ivorian leaders the best way for the international community to help in implementing the Ouagadougou Accords.”
3. “RDR in turmoil,” says the banner headline running across Le Temps, a daily close to Gbagbo. It quotes RDR spokesman Ali Coulibaly advising party dissidents not “to spit in the soup” and jeopardize things.
Concerning the question of military grades, it reports the two chiefs of staff Mangou and Bakayoko have said it is “the politicians” who must resolve the problem.
4. “Resignations at RHDP: Collateral Damage from the Direct Talks,” says Le Matin d’Abidjan, a daily close the ruling FPI. With so many RDR members deserting their party, the PDCI will soon have a similar problem. And, it’s the same for some members of the UDPCI, who are suspected of wanting to join the FPI.
5. “To Become President, Bedié Counts on His Ethnic Group,” headlines Notre Voie, a daily close to the ruling FPI. In an interview with Jeune Afrique, Bedié says he is sure to win the election with the support of his ally, Alassane Ouattara. He believes this because of the ethnic make-up of the PDCI.
6. “Bedié speaks: I am not afraid of Gbagbo, the PDCI is a powerful machine,” is the headline running across Le Front, a daily close to the New Forces. Bedié states that if the RHDP fields many candidates in the upcoming elections, it would be impossible for Gbagbo to claim he speaks for the nation.
7. “After resigning from the RDR, Zemogo is threatened in his home town,” headlines 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition. Excerpting the Jeune Afrique interview with Bedié, the paper quotes him saying his party is facing problems because Gbagbo has monopolized all state media organs and used government programs to help him get re-elected. But despite that, PDCI remains the most important party in the country.
8. “Swearing In Prefets for the New Forces Zones, Dialogue of the Deaf between the Interior Minister and Prefets”, is a front-page story in Le Nouveau Réveil, the news daily close to the former ruling PDCI-RDA party. According to the paper, at yesterday’s Bouaké ceremony for prefets, their spokesman complained about working and living conditions to the Interior Minister. He was not happy with that, and told them restoring the government’s presence was what they should concentrate on, rather than airing their demands, complaints, and grievances.
9. “Bedie explodes in his Jeune Afrique Interview: Gbagbo knows he will be beaten and is delaying elections,” says a headline running across l’Intelligent d’Abidjan, an independent daily. Bedié says that everybody knows that FPI is a minority in Côte d’Ivoire and that the PDCI is the biggest party in the country – look at the results of the last municipal elections in 2000-2001.
10. “UN Mission in Côte d’Ivoire, Aubrey Hooks wants Schori’s position” headlines Nord-Sud Quotidien, a daily close to the opposition. The UN has short-listed four candidates for the position of UN special representative to Côte d’Ivoire, but two names stand out in that list. Abou Moussa, the current interim representative, and the US Ambassador to Cote d’Ivoire. According to the paper, Gbagbo’s choice would be Abou Moussa, who is African and has been involved in most of the UN operations connected to the peace process in Côte d’Ivoire.
June 18, 2007Influential members quitting the Rally of Republicans (RDR) dominate the headlines in the Ivoirian press today.
1. “After Zémogo, Georges Coffi is leaving and Kouamé Oi Kouamé tells why he is leaving the RDR” says a headline running across Nord-Sud Quotidien, a daily close to the opposition. At a tribute paid to President Gbagbo in Bongouanou last Saturday, a number of Ivorian political opposition figures – the Mayor of Arrah for one – announced they were joining the FPI president due to their unhappiness with the RDR. Georges Coffi said that from what he has seen, many other RDR members will jump ship as well.
The paper also reports the question about military grades for New Forces soldiers is still a big problem for Prime Minister, and no solution has been found. According to the paper, FDS security force member say that if the new grades are maintained, they too will demand higher ranks.
2. “Crisis at the RDR: After Zemogo and Kouamé Oi Kouamé, Georges Coffi is leaving” headlines L’Inter, an independent daily. At the tribute paid to Laurent Gbagbo last Saturday, more than 1,800 RHDP members joined the FPI. Mamadou Koulibaly, National Assembly President, said if other regions of the country follow the Bongouanou example, Gbagbo will be elected on the first round of elections.
3. “Minister Ibrahim Cissé Bacongo reveals RDR dissidents received 50 million CFA each.” is the front-story of Le Patriote, a daily close to RDR. At an RDR ceremony in Treichville, Minister Cissé Bacongo said those who are leaving the party are doing so for money -- the FPI is giving up to 50 million CFA to each big name dissident to leave.
4. “Zemogo’s residence under protection,” says 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition. According to the paper, the departure of Zemogo from the RDR is the principal object of heated discussion among party members in his home town. The paper also reported that 200 women members of the RDR have promised never to betray Alassane Dramane Ouattara, at an event in Abidjan on Saturday.
The paper notes 2,000 replacement Licorne soldiers have arrived in Cote d’Ivoire, but it is only a normal rotation of the deployed troops. Also, a delegation representing the UN Security Counsel arrives in Abidjan today to consult with different actors involved in the Ouagadougou Accord.
5. Le Nouveau Réveil, a daily close to the former ruling PDCI-RDA party, headlines that Kouamé Oi Kouamé has decided to quit the RDR and to rejoin the FPI.
6. “Fighting over the 280 million CFA Gbagbo gave militia groups – militants attack house, and try to kill, their chief,” is the headline running across Le Front, a daily close to the New Forces. Pastor Gammi, a militia chief close to Gbagbo, was taken to the “Gendarmerie on Saturday while his furious followers accuse him of misappropriating funds given to him on May 19 in Guiglo.
The paper also reports that Guillaume Soro wants to speed up the peace process. He’s meeting Prefets in Bouaké today to discuss the upcoming national identification program.
7. “Gbagbo ‘Ibrahim’ Honored by his Muslim brothers,” headlines Le Temps, a daily close to Gbagbo. Muslims in Gagnoa met the Head of State on Sunday, with many RDR and PDCI supporters publicly resigning from their parties to join the FPI. With today’s redeployment of the administration’s Prefects to the Rebel Zones, Guillaume Soro is speeding up the Ouagadougou Accords implementation.
8. “Sidiki Konaté clarifies the role of the Prime Minister: he is a referee,” headlines Le Courrier d’Abidjan, a daily close to Gbagbo. The New Forces spokesperson spoke to the paper about the peace process, citing the need for concrete acts, transparency, and impartiality by the Prime Minister.
9. “Muslims to Gbagbo: You Promote Islam,” headlines Fraternité Matin, the state-owned daily. Last Saturday, Muslims from seven cities showed their support for Gbagbo in Mama, his home town.
10. “Gbagbo unhappy with Kouchner’s Statement in Bamako,” says a banner headline running accross Notre Voie, a daily close to the ruling FPI party. During the swearing-in of the Malian President June 8, French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner is quoted as saying he would only come to Abidjan if he assured that Ivorian elections will be free, fair and transparent.
The paper also reports that RDR is still losing its members, with the former RDR Mayor of Arrah and 1,800 RHDP militants rejoining the FPI.
June 15, 2007News that Zémogo Fofana, one of founders of the Rally of Republicans Party(RDR) has quit, and that Zehi Sebastien, former Director General of the Ivorian Post Office, has been reinstated after a Supreme Court decision dominates the Ivoirian press today.
1. “Zémogo quits the RDR” says a banner headline running across Fraternité Matin, the state-owned daily. According to the paper, Zemogo says it was his lack of confidence in the other party leaders that caused him to quit. “Ivorians expected new actions from us, but the big changes promised never took place.”
The paper also reports that the fight between Zehi Sebastien, former director general of the Ivorian post office, and its Board of Directors continues. The Supreme Court rejected his dismissal by the Board and ordered his reinstatement as director.
2. “Rally of Republicans: Zemogo slams the door and quits Abidjan” headlines L’Intelligent d’Abidjan, an independent daily. In a press conference, Zemogo is reported as saying the RDR was created by people who wanted “democracy, justice, liberty, and a new order,” but that today’s RDR no longer pursues those political values.
3. “Crisis within the RDR: Zemogo Fofana tells ‘Why I am leaving,’” says a banner headline running across L’Inter, an independent daily. At his press conference yesterday, Zemogo said the party’s inner confidence is gone, “extinguished,” and that to avoid endless arguments and useless debates, he’s decided to leave.
4. “A Thunder Clap for the Republicans -- Zemogo Fofana quits the RDR, saying the trust between him and Alassane Ouattara is gone” is the front-page story of Le Temps, a daily close to Gbagbo. At his press conference yesterday, he noted that because they learned to “swim in a small bath tub,” RDR leaders can’t easily jump into a big tub.
The paper also reports that the G7 is struggling to identify a single candidate for the presidential election. There’s great fighting going on behind the façade of “solidarity” that the RHDP presents to the public. Bedié wants to be that candidate, but Ouattara does not want his old rival -- who did everything possible to derail his own candidacy for the presidency – to be the chosen one.
6. “At long last, Zemogo throws away his mask and quits the RDR,” headlines 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition. Despite negotiations he held with Alassane Ouattara a few days ago, Zemogo has finally decided to quit the RDR.
The paper also says the youth wing of the G7 will boycott the upcoming “Peace Caravan,” as they don’t understand why G7 Youth are being linked to the peace and reconciliation caravan.
7. “After the Permanent Committee’s Decisions, Gbagbo is at a dead end. Can the ruling FPI party reject the Ouagadougou Accord?” questions a banner headline running across Le Nouveau Réveil, a daily close to the former ruling PDCI-RDA party. According to the paper, after the Permanent Committee made some serious “corrections” on how the Ouagadougou Accord will be enacted, the presidential camp is furious as all their plans to control the election process have collapsed.
The paper also says that a University of Bordeaux professor stated on RFI yesterday that the PDCI is a party well placed to win the future presidential election. Regarding Zemogo’s departure from RDR, the paper says he made two contradictory statements and wonders why he announced his departure in the absence of Alassane Ouattara.
8. “Zemogo is gone at long last….The true reason for his departure,” is a front-page story for Le Patriote, a daily close to the opposition RDR party. After several weeks of hesitation, the Deputy Secretary General of the RDR has resigned.
The paper also reports the former Director General of the post office is coming back, after the Supreme Court turned down a request by his Board of Directors to dismiss him.
9. A banner headline running across Le Front, a daily close to New Forces, talks of the “Disarming of militia groups in the West.” Accoding to the UN chief of the “Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reinsertion Division, the operation is to be restarted. He explained that the ceremony presided over by President Gbagbo on May 19 in Guiglo – when some militia groups symbolically gave back their arms to the President – only marked the beginning of the disarmament program in that region of the country. Now it’s up to the UN DDRD and Ivorian Command Center to supervise the operation for those who have not yet given their arms back. 10. “The Command Center has betrayed us: Soro’s men to Gbagbo” headlines Le Jour, a daily close to the opposition. The New Forces personnel did not attend the last meeting of the Command Center, and refuse to accept any decisions made at the meeting. They feel betrayed as it seems the new military ranks and salaries authorized them by the Ouaga Accord has not been accepted by President Gbagbo. Another complaint concerns the way militia groups in the West were disarmed. Instead of having the Command Center (joint New Forces and government military forces) conduct the operation, it was the President’s Office that (mis)handled it.
June 14, 2007The “Permanent Committee” meeting in Yamoussoukro and toxic waste compensation dominate the Ivoirian press today.
1. “Le Nouveau Réveil, a daily close to the former ruling PDCI-RDA party, questions if the first Permanent Committee’s meeting is the victory of the G7 (the opposition coalition) or the ruling party FPI. The paper reports the Secretary General of the PDCI has called on all Ivorians to be optimistic about the success of the Ouagadougou Accord. Regarding the retention of the UN High Representative for the Elections in Cote d’Ivoire, he calls it a victory for Cote d’Ivoire, and not just the RHDP.
The paper also reports the President has asked the 100,000+ victims of the toxic wastes dumped in Abidjan last August to wait for their compensations, claiming other victim associations have been created recently that make victim compensation a more difficult operation. Before any funds can be disbursed, the official lists of victims must be checked to see if they correspond to the ones given the government by hospitals.
2. “Gone to meet President Gbagbo in Yamoussoukro, a king of Zanzan dies in a car crash on his way back” headlines Le Patriote, a daily close to the opposition RDR party. The daily also says that during a press conference yesterday, Djédjé Mady of the PDCI says the G7 will have a strategy to implement the Permanent Committee’s decisions.
3. “Compensation for the toxic wastes’ victims, Gbagbo fixes the rules of the game,” says a banner headline running across Fraternité Matin, the state-owned daily. Yesterday, in a statement, the Presidential spokesman gave full details on the distribution of the 100 billion CFA paid by Trafigura, the company that brought toxic wastes to Cote d’Ivoire last August.
4. “After the 100 billion CFA already paid to Gbagbo, he wants 250 billion more from Trafigura for the toxic wastes it dumped in Abidjan” and “How President Compaoré foiled Gbagbo’s trap,” are the headlines of 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition. According to the paper, ‘La Lettre du Continent’ published a report yesterday describing new pressures being put on Trafigura to pay an additional 250 billion CFA re:the toxic waste scandal.
The paper also reports that following the first meeting of the Permanent Committee, the Ivorian opposition should be relieved as the mediator succeeded in foiling Gbagbo’s traps, and in finding solutions for some of the opposition’s concerns. Regarding the UN High Representative for the Elections in Cote d’Ivoire, the paper says a PDCI official believes it is a condition for the certification of any future elections.
5. “100 days after the Ouagadougou Accord -- the military grades of the New Forces soldiers, the Role and Future of Soro, the Games played by Gbagbo, Bedié and Ouattara, the Peace Process -- the truths that nobody dares to reveal” is the front page story of L’Intelligent d’Abidjan, an independent daily. According to the paper, the only victory so far is the common desire for peace, with outstanding concerns like the disarmament of militia groups, the grades of New Forces officers, the reunification of the two armies, the national identification program, and the elections still to be resolved.
6. Le Front, a daily close to the New Forces, reports Burkinabe President Blaise Compaoré, mediator of the Ouagadougou Accords, has agreed the UN High Representative for the Elections in Cote d’Ivoire should be maintained, and will contact the UN in order to confirm the position. This is seen as a victory for the Ivorian opposition, which did not want President Gbagbo to have all the election powers in his hands.
7. “The Ouagadougou Accord may bring about its own failure,” is the front page message running across Le Matin d’Abidjan, a daily close to Gbagbo. According to the paper, the members of the Permanent Committee asked the mediator to contact the UN in order to maintain the position of High Representative for the Elections in Cote d’Ivoire, a condition of Bedié and Ouattara dearly wanted and asked some African Heads of State to support.
8. “Stoudman will not come back in Cote d’Ivoire” writes Notre Voie, a daily close to the ruling FPI party. The position of the High Representative for the Elections in Cote d’Ivoire will be retained, but not in the person of the last High Representative, Mr. Stoudman. According to the paper, he did not help in the peace process and will not be brought back.
9. “Trip of peace and reconciliation -- President Gbagbo will be in Bouaké at the end of June,” says a banner headline carried by Le Courrier d’Abidjan, a daily close to Gbagbo. The “peace caravan” of Ivorian youth that aims to break down the nation’s military and political divide, will begin June 22 and visit all parts of the country. It will take place in Bouaké in the presence of Presidents Gbagbo and Compaoré.
The paper also reports on a statement by President Gbagbo that it has been decided that toxic waste compensations will first be paid to the State of Cote d’Ivoire, then to regional communities, and finally to village communities.
10. “Corruption of the Ivorian opposition -- the list of political parties getting paid by the President’s Office,” is the headline in Le Jour, a daily close to the opposition. According to the paper, political parties, unions and other movements that support Gbagbo regularly receive funds from the presidency. Political parties mentioned include PURCI, AIRD, URD, UPR, NACI, USD, and some members of PDCI as well.
June 13, 2007Yesterday’s meeting of the Ouagadougou Accord’s “Permanent Committee” in Yamoussoukro dominates today’s Ivoirian press.
1. “Yamoussoukro: Compaoré and the Ivorian Leaders decide elections will take place in the first quarter of 2008,” says a banner headline running across L’Inter, an independent daily. President Compaoré has asked the Prime Minister to start the national identification program this month, and to finalize the process for issuing national identity cards. Other decisions included keeping the UN position of High Representative for the Elections in Cote d’Ivoire, to merge and reunite the two armies, and to restart the disarmament of militia groups in the west as the first operation was not a success.
2. “The Permanent Committee’s Big Decisions: presidential elections will take place in the first quarter of 2008, the national identification program will start this month, the state media should be open to everybody,” says a banner headline running across Fraternité Matin, the state-owned daily. In an interview, President Blaise Compaoré said “the Ouagadougou peace process has been delayed two months, and special efforts must be made to catch up.”
3.”First meeting of the “Permanent Committee in Yamoussoukro: military ranks of New Forces officers still divide, so Compaoré calls the Accord signatories back to Ouagadougou,” cries a banner headline carried by Le Jour, a daily close to the opposition. According to the paper, major decisions were made during the meeting of the Permanent Committee, but the question of the New Forces military grades is still unresolved and to find a solution, the Accord’s signers have been called back to Ouagadougou. 4. A banner headline carried by Le Patriote, a daily close to the opposition RDR party, says that “Compaoré settles election matters at the Permanent Committee’s meeting in Yamoussoukro.” According to the paper, the Burkinabe President has cleared all hurdles, asking his Ivorian counterpart to sign decrees establishing a new board of directors for RTI (the national television) and Fraternité Matin, the state-owned daily, to permit other political parties better access to national media coverage.
5. Le Nouveau Réveil, a daily close to the former ruling PDCI-RDA party, headlines the many results of yesterday’s Permanent Committee meeting in Yamoussoukro: “Elections will take place in the first quarter of 2008, SAGEM is charged with national identification program, UN High Representative for the Elections in Cote d’Ivoire is to remain, RTI and Fraternité Matin Board of Directors have been reactivated, Disarming of militia groups in west criticized.” The paper goes on to note that Compoare’s help has been asked re: resolving problems connected to New Forces civil service and military grades.
The paper also reports that Bernard Kouchner, the French Foreign Affairs Minister, says that France wants elections in Cote d’Ivoire to be well run, transparent and fair.
6. “Soro is responsible for Bedié and Ouattara,” says a banner headline running across Le Temps, a daily close to Gbagbo. According to the paper, it was agreed that Prime Minister Soro should oversee the Permanent Committee, and this implies he needs to find a mechanism whereby Bedié and Ouattara are fully involved in the Committee’s work.
7. “The Permanent Committee decides: the UN will supervise the elections” says a banner headline running across Le Front, the daily close to the New Forces. According to the paper, the Permanent Committee decided that the position of the UN High Representative should be maintained. The issue of militias impeding the peace process was discussed, and the Prime Minister ordered to take charge of the program to disarm the nation’s many militia groups.
8. “Permanent Committee Decisions in Yamoussoukro: the UN’s International Working Group is dissolved, the UN High Representative’s position is maintained, the disarmament of militia groups must be redone,” is the front-page story of Nord-Sud Quotidien, a daily close to the opposition. The paper reports that maintaining the UN Representative is “a big victory for the opposition,” which had sent a letter to the UN Secretary General on this matter. President Gbagbo, however, has not lost a lot as the Permanent Committee also voted to dissolve the International Working Group, something he very much wanted.
9. “Begin to Apply the Ouagadougou Accord, Compaoré Advises Gbagbo and Soro” says a banner headline running across 24 Heures, the daily close to the opposition. Political obstacles must be removed so that the Accord can succeed. Ouaga has a chance in its application.
10. “The Ouagadougou Accords’ Permanent Committee makes a mistake,” says Notre Voie, a daily close to the ruling FPI party. With yesterday decision to maintain the UN High Representative for Elections, it is now uncertain whether the “S.S. Cote d’Ivoire” can safely reach its harbor. According to the paper, the Ouagadougou Accords did not mention the UN Representative’s position, so maintaining it is in violation of the Accord.
June 12, 2007The travel to Yamoussoukro of President Blaise Compaoré, mediator of the Ouagadougou Accord, is the major story in today’s Ivoirian press.
1. “The Ouagadougou Accord: Yamoussoukro attacks the obstacles at the first meeting of the ‘Permanent Committee,” bringing together Président Compaoré, Président Gbagbo, Prime Minister Soro, former President Bédié and former Prime Minister Ouattara” says a banner headline running across Fraternité Matin, the state-owned daily.
2. “Evaluating the Ouagadougou Accord in Yamoussoukro: Gbagbo and Soro to meet Compaoré, “ is the banner headline running across Le Front, the daily close to the New Forces. “Three months after the Ouagadougou Accord’s signing, President Compaore will install the “Permanent Committee,” the paper reports, and notes he will take the opportunity as well to tell Bedié and Ouattara what he expects from them.
The paper also reports that a law professor at the University of Cocody says the Accord is ambiguous about the candidacy of political leaders who were not signatories to the Accord. The professor notes that the Pretoria Accord clearly stated all political leaders connected to the Ivorian crisis -- including Alassane Ouattara of RDR -- could be candidates in a presidential election. After the Ouagadougou Accord, however, what will become of the Pretoria Accord?
3. Writing about “Cocoa and the UN Arms Embargo,” an opposition daily, 24 Hours, notes the UN embargo on arms sales in Cote d’Ivoire did not have any real effect on the conflict as it came too late, cocoa sales having allowed them to buy as many arms as they needed before the UN embargo in late 2004.
4. “Applying the Ouagadougou Accord: Blaise Compaoré has warned Gbagbo three times,” says a banner headline running across Le Jour, a daily close to the opposition. The story says the Burkinabe President has disagreed with his Ivorian counterpart on several matters, such as the question about the new grades given to New Forces military officers.
5. “First summit of the Permanent Committee in Yamoussoukro this morning: the Dangers, Doubts, Concerns and Hopes,” is the front page story for Le Nouveau Réveil, a daily close to the former ruling PDCI-RDA party. According to the paper, “three months after the signing of the Ouagadougou Accord, its implementation has not been significant. Today each leader will tell the mediator what’s been done, what still needs to be done, and what remains uncertain.”
The paper also comments that the latest proposal by Desiré Tagro, the Interior Minister, concerning the national identification program is disturbing, and confirms the ruling FPI party is prepared to cheat, if need be, in the forthcoming elections.
6. Le Patriote, a daily close to RDR, writes that Burkinabe President Compaore will make his first visit to Cote d’Ivoire since the uprising of the Ivorian army in September 2002. Compaoré says his meetings will allow him to get a better understanding of obstacles to the Ouagadougou Accord and to discuss ways to resolve those problems.
The paper also discusses the ruling FPI party’s efforts to create a favorable election environment, and how it seems the UN Secretary General is to be an accomplice in that.
7. “First meeting of the Permanent Committee in Yamoussoukro; Bédié and Ouattara at Death’s Crossroad,” says a banner headline running across Notre Voie, a daily close to the ruling FPI party. According to the paper, the political future of former president Bedié and former Prime Minister Ouattara are at stake; nor are they happy with the new powers gained by Guillaume Soro. For them, Soro working with the president will only allow Gbagbo to beat them in the next elections.
8. “Alassane Ouattara threatens Cote d’Ivoire and the UN: We will take the streets until the UN departs,” says a banner headline that runs across Le Temps, a daily closed to Gbagbo. According to the paper, “Ouattara has openly criticized the UN Secretary General, and threatened to drive the UN out of the country.” The RDR President is opposed to cutting the UN position of High Representative for the Elections in Cote d’Ivoire, because only that official can guarantee fair and transparent elections. 9. l’Intelligent d’Abidjan, an independent daily, reports that “before coming to Cote d’Ivoire, President Compaoré said that member states are equal shareholders in the West Africa States Central Bank, and that rotating the Bank Governor’s position among them is authorized in the original treaty.”
June 11, 2007 The travel of Blé Goudé, the president of Young Patriots, to the New Forces zone and reconciliation by leaders of the G7 – an opposition party coalition -- are the major issues in today’s Ivoirian press.
1. “The Ouagadougou Accord breaks down walls: Blé Goudé received in triumph on Saturday in Bouaké,” says a banner headline running across Notre Voie, the daily close to the ruling FPI party. The leader of the young patriots is reported as inviting the Bouake population to accept the Ouagadougou Accord, by supporting the President and Prime Minister. He told his listeners he came to Bouake to tell them that his “Reconciliation Through Peace” caravan is real, and people must believe him sincere.
2. “A Return of Peace with Blé Goudé in the New Forces Zone: Weeping and tears of joy in Bouaké,” is the front-page story in Le Temps. The paper reports that the day Blé Goudé and his delegation departed for Bouaké, their spouses were worried and asked their husbands to leave enough money for them, in case something happened in Bouaké. Ble Goudé asked the citizens of Bouaké to “forgive him for what he said about them at the beginning of the war.”
The paper also reports that since the signing of the Ouagadougou Accord, many radical opponents have returned home -- Jules Yao Yao (ex-spokesman for Security/Defense), Jacques Bechio and Ali Keita of the RDR, and Zoro Bi Ballo Epiphane (former judge and president of MIDH).
3. “Blé Goudé to Bouaké: I am sorry” says a banner headline running across Nord-Sud Quotidien, a daily close to the RDR. The paper reports that Charles Blé Goudé apologized to people in Bouake he hurt, and warned those who want a way other than the Ouagadougou Accord that they are choosing poorly.
The paper also reports President Blaise Compaoré, the Ouagadougou Accord mediator, will be in Yamoussoukro Tuesday to evaluate progress on the accord with its signatories, as well as former president Bedié and former Prime Minister Alassane Ouattara. The paper also reports the G7 met at Bedié’s residence yesterday to plan for the Yamoussoukro meeting. According to the spokesperson of the G7, Alphone Djédjé Mady, relations among G7 members are very good, contrary to the rumors that newspapers are spreading.
4. “G7: 68 Minutes of Frank Discussion at President Bédié’s Residence,” says a banner headline that runs across Le Nouveau Réveil, a daily close to the former ruling PDCI-RDA party. The paper reports that Prime Minister Soro, President Bedié, Alassane Ouattara and Anaky Kobena met yesterday to discuss ways to implement the peace process, two days before their meeting with President Blaise Compaore, the Ouagadougou Accord mediator.
The paper also reports that Bedié met President Compaoré in Ouagadougou on Sunday, June 8.
5. “Before Tuesday’s Session with President Compaoré, Soro met Bédié and Ado,” is the front-page story in 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition. Preparing for the meeting of the Accord’s “Permanent Committee” tomorrow in Yamoussoukro, the G7 met yesterday to prepare the strategy that it wants to present to Compaore for implementing the Ouagadougou Accord.
The paper also reports that the Ivorian First Lady avoided a possible confrontation in Switzerland. According to the paper, Mrs. Gbagbo has been there for the past week to promote her book “Word of Honor”. She canceled a press conference at the last minute because she was afraid she’d get some embarrassing questions and charges about her book from RDR supporters and media correspondents in attendance.
6. Le Jour, a daily close to the Opposition, reports Prime Minister Soro did not attend a ceremony organized by Bertin Kadet, Presidential Adviser on Defense, because of his unhappiness with the latter’s poor handling of the disarmament program in western Cote d’Ivoire. The paper notes the Defense Minister and Chief staff did attend, though they too are unhappy with how Kadet handled it.
7. “What is the UN’s Role in Cote d’Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara asks Ban Ki-Moon,” says a banner headline running across Le Patriote, a daily close to the RDR. The paper reports that the RDR has rejected the recommendations of Ban Ki-Moon re: the Cote d’Ivoire, while Bedie has asked for clarification of some points.
June 8, 2007 1. Almost three months after the "controversial" launching of the disarmament program for militia groups operating in Western Cote d’Ivoire, Friday’s dailies report that "President Laurent Gbagbo has set up a commission to shed light on where the money intended for the former combatants went." In another development, a report documented by Global Witness, an international right group says, "Revenue from cocoa trade has been used for many years to fuel the conflict in Cote d’Ivoire." 2. A report entitled "Hot Chocolate" is a front-page story in 24 Heures. The daily close to the opposition explains to readers "how cocoa was used by fighters from both sides of the belligerents." It publishes the full text of what it calls, "The explosive report that accuses Gbagbo and Soro." 3. "How the money earned from cocoa trade has been used to fuel the Ivoirian conflict," says a banner headline that runs across Le Nouveau Reveil, a daily close to the former ruling PDCI-RDA party. According to the paper, the report describes, "The mafia that was organized by the FPI [the ruling party] and the New Forces." 4. Excerpts of the document, published by the paper, reads, "Millions of dollars worth of cocoa revenues have funded both sides in the conflict, with the tacit acceptance of cocoa companies based in America and Europe." 5. Soir Info, a privately-owned daily, calls the dismantlement of the militia groups operating in the west of Cote d’Ivoire, "A big hoax." According to the paper, "Things were badly done, and there is a need to start anew the program." 6. Citing reliable sources, it indicates that, "Since yesterday, a joint delegation -- made up of officers from Cote d’Ivoire’s National Army and the New Forces -- have been visiting cities in the western region to sensitize the population and military officers on the disarmament of militia groups." 7. A front-page story in the privately-owned daily L’inter says that, "Apparently unhappy about how money intended for former combatants for disarming was used, President Gbagbo has ordered an investigation." The paper also quotes an interim report explaining how "some militia group leaders embezzled the money." 8. Another front-page story in L’inter says, "President Bush has increased PEPFAR’s 2007 budget from 23 billion to 42 billion CFA, to strengthen and expand the fight against HIV/AIDS in Cote d’Ivoire." 9. Still on US-Cote d’Ivoire bilateral relations, L’intelligent d’Abidjan, a privately-owned daily, reports that, "Ivoirians yesterday called for demonstrations to protest the imminent departure of Aubrey Hooks, current US Ambassador to Cote d’Ivoire." "The atypical diplomat has been so well adopted by our compatriots, that they’ve forgotten that he came here for a mission," comments the paper. 10. "Before his confirmation as the boss of the World Bank, Robert Zoellick shared some of his views with our reporter," says a front-page story in Le Courrier d’Abidjan, a daily close to Gbagbo. Zoellick, speaking in Accra, told the reporter about "his plan for Africa if he gets the nod to lead the World Bank."
June 7, 2007 1. Ivoirian papers announce that former Head of State Henri Konan Bedie is expected in Ouagadougou on Saturday to hold talks with the Burkinabe President Blaise Compaore on recent political developments in Cote d’Ivoire. Meanwhile, dailies also report that moves are underway to ensure the full implementation of the Ouagadougou Agreement. 2. "Before Blaise Compaore’s visit to Cote d’Ivoire, Bedie will be in Ouagadougou on Saturday," says a front-page story in Le Nouveau Reveil, a daily close to the former ruling PDCI-RDA party. The paper indicates that, "Bedie is to hold a tete-a-tete with Compaore – the mediator in the Ivoirian crisis -- their first one since the signing of the Ouagadougou Agreement." 3. It also announces that, upon return from the Burkinabe capital, the former Ivoirian President will invite members of the opposition alliance, the G-7, for what it calls "a crucial meeting" on Sunday. "Though the agenda of this conclave is not revealed," the paper suggests, "it may be linked to the upcoming visit of the mediator to Cote d’Ivoire on Tuesday." 4. 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition, calls the visit of Bedie to Ouagadougou, "political maneuvering before Tuesday’s crucial summit" which will be held in Yamoussoukro, Cote d’Ivoire’s political capital. "The G-7 is serious about the meeting aimed at evaluating the Ouagadougou Agreement." The paper suggests that, "Bedie will definitely use his meeting with Compaore to inform the mediator of the preoccupations of the opposition coalition regarding the implementation of the peace deal." 5. L’inter, a privately-owned daily, comments, "The visit of Bedie to Ouagadougou – before the Yamoussoukro summit –could be seen as a plan crafted by Compaore to allow Bedie and Alassane Dramane Ouattara – two leading opposition figures sidelined during the signing of the peace deal -- to play a role in the peace process." 6. Le Front, a daily close to the New Forces, indicates that "issues pertaining to the organization of the upcoming elections will be high on the agenda during the meeting between Bedie and Compaore." 7. Le Courrier d’Abidjan, a daily close to Gbagbo, reports "61 war prisoners will be freed today." According to the paper, "The release of the detainees by Cote d’Ivoire’s National Armed Forces – FANCI-- is in accordance with an amnesty law passed by the Ivoirian President following the Ouagadougou Agreement." 8. Among the 61 people to be released today are "former combatants, civilians, and FANCI soldiers," announces Notre Voie, a daily close to the ruling FPI party. It indicates that "the former Ivoirian Chief of Staff, General Mathias Doue, is not touched by the amnesty law since he has never been prosecuted." 9. On bilateral issues, L’intelligent d’Abidjan, a privately-owned daily, carries front-page news announcing that "Mrs Wanda Nesbitt has been nominated by President George Bush as the next Ambassador of the United States to Cote d’Ivoire." 10. Finally, news reports say, torrential rains are causing mayhem in Cote d’Ivoire as "a house collapsed in Attecoube – a suburb of Abidjan – killing five people."
June 6, 2007 1. The recent visit of Ivoirian opposition leader, Alassane Dramane Ouattara, to Libreville to brief the Gabonese president on recent political developments in Cote d’Ivoire is criticized in many Ivorian newspapers. Dailies also look with interest at the efforts by President Laurent Gbagbo and his Prime Minister to speed up the peace process in this country. 2. The state-owned daily Fraternite Matin expresses optimism after yesterday’s signing by Gbagbo of "two decrees to pave the way for the resumption of the identification scheme, which was halted last year." According to the paper the decision came after Gbagbo and Soro Guillaume met "to narrow their positions" on issues pertaining to the application of the Ouagadougou Agreement. 3. The Ivoirian Defense Minister, speaking yesterday after a meeting with Soro, announces, "Disarmament of the ex-combatants will effectively begin at the end of this month." He reassures the population that, "There’s no reason to rush, nobody will be forced to disarm, and everything will occur by compromise and consensus." 4. As press reports announce the Burkinabe President is coming to Abidjan next week, Le Nouveau Reveil, a daily close to the former ruling PDCI-RDA party, says, "Burning issues waiting for the facilitator in the Ivoirian peace process are disarmament, the identification program, and the recurrent question regarding the ranks of New Forces’ soldiers." 5. In the coming days, there would be what the paper calls "a repeat of the May 19 disarmament of militia groups in Duekoue." According to the paper, "Observers believe that the operation in Duekoue could have been a simple political ploy on the part of the presidential camp, done at a moment when the mediator in the Ouagadougou talks, President Blaise Compaore, is expected in Cote d’Ivoire to assess what has been so far achieved since the signing of the Agreement." 6. "Guns to be destroyed on June 30 in Bouake," says a banner headline carries by Notre Voie, a daily close to the ruling FPI party. The paper suggests that, "After militia groups in the western region of Cote d’Ivoire have deposed of their weapons, now it’s the turn of the New Forces to hand over their guns. Part of these weapons will be symbolically destroyed on June 30 in Bouake." 7. Regarding the military ranks given to soldiers of the New Forces by Soro, the paper quotes the Defense Minister as saying, "We’re trying to resolve this problem through consensus." 8. "Violence and killings in the West: Amani accuses Gbagbo’s Liberian mercenaries," says a front-page story in 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition. The paper also notes that "there is still disagreement over the ranks given to soldiers of the New Forces by Soro." The leader of the Young Patriots, Charles Ble Goude, told the paper, "I’ve political ambitions." It also reports that, "The youth wing of the New Forces is divided over Ble Goude’s plan to bring his peace caravan to Bouake [the New Forces’ stronghold]." 9. In a separate development, the paper suggests that, "The Speaker of the National Assembly has lost his battle to re-instate the House, as a bill on the 2007 budget was not presented to the lawmakers, but was adopted last Monday by presidential ordinance." 10. "The North is falling apart, while Ouattara is financing projects abroad," says a banner headline that runs across Le Courrier d’Abidjan, a daily close to Gbagbo. The paper explains how the Ivoirian opposition figure has "abused" the citizens of the northern region of Cote d’Ivoire. 11. In a related development, Le Matin d’Abidjan, another daily close to Gbagbo, asserts that Ouattara’s visit to Libreville was part of his "lobbying efforts to meet the French newly elected President."
June 5, 2007 1. Today’s papers are dominated by the political wrangling and in-fighting among Ivoirian political parties, as efforts are underway to implement the peace process. 2. Le Front, a daily close to the New Forces, denounces what it calls, "Gbagbo’s silence" over the controversy surrounding the new military ranks given New Forces officers. The paper accuses the Ivoirian President of "blocking the Ouagadougou Agreement through diversion." The paper warns, "If this controversy is not settled, it could hold back the application of the Accord." 3. Regarding the defections that opposition parties are experiencing, Le Front questions "the real political weight of the dissenters." In a separate development, the paper reports that, "Following looting of the offices of two Human Rights groups in Abidjan, the Ivoirian League of Human Rights has sued FESCI – the major Ivorian Student Association." 4. "In a bid to bring party dissidents back, Alassane Dramane Ouattara is calling on Imams for a rescue," says a front-page story in Le Temps. The opposition parties, notes the paper, are caught up in what it calls a "whirlwind," one that is likely "to destroy them." The paper also quotes the leader of the Young Patriots as saying, "I won’t take part in any war against the FPI party." According to the paper, Charles Ble Goude was reacting to news reports that said "The Young Patriots will field candidates in the upcoming parliamentary elections." 5. "2008 parliamentary elections: Ble Goude dissociates himself from his comrades," writes L’inter, a privately-owned daily. The paper also quotes a leading opposition figure as saying, "The Opposition’s coalitions won’t die." 6. "Dissidents have abandoned Zemogo," says a banner headline that runs across the daily 24 Heures, close to the opposition. According to the paper, "Zemogo Fofana – a leading member of the RDR party – refuses to announce publicly his plan to form a new party… As a result, his comrades, who have also planned to break away from the party, have decided to go ahead with their plan." 7. Two weeks after a conclave in Daoukro, "Members of the PDCI-RDA – the former ruling party – will meet on Thursday to prepare for the upcoming elections." Regarding the implementation of the Ouagadougou Agreement, the paper predicts that "There could be a third round of negotiations, as Gbagbo and Soro disagree on the organization of the next elections." 8. According to the paper, "The Ivoirian Prime Minister is demanding the arbitration of the United Nations over any disputes that may result from the coming elections, while the President had openly called for the departure of the United Nations’ Special Representative in-charge of elections in Côte d’Ivoire." 9. "Gbagbo is preparing an electoral hold-up," says a front-page story in Le Patriote, a daily close to the RDR party. In face of these allegations, the paper calls on the opposition alliance "to act now" in order to counter what it calls "Gbagbo’s strategy to weaken them." According to the paper, "The leader of the RDR is currently in Libreville, briefing the Gabonese president on recent political developments in Cote d’Ivoire." 10. Speaking yesterday to reporters, Gbagbo said: "We can now move freely throughout the country," reports Notre Voie, a daily close to the ruling party. Gbagbo, indicates the paper, was speaking on arrival from Libya, where he had participated in the Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD) Heads of State’s summit. 11. "CEN-SAD supports the Ouagadougou Agreement," the state-owned daily, Fraternite Matin, quotes the President as saying.
June 4, 2007 1. Pro- and anti-government papers sing with one voice today saying, "The Elephants have reconciled Ivoirians, as Cote d’Ivoire’s national football team thrash their Malagasy counterparts 5-0, maintaining their rank and place in the Group One Africa Cup of Nations 2008 qualifiers." 2. "Reconciliation through football: Five goals to wipe out a five year war," says a banner headline running across the state-owned daily Fraternite Matin. The paper, which devotes two pages to the event, says, "There was a general mobilization of Ivoirians" behind the Elephants, who sealed "the reconciliation" of this West African country. According to the paper, Ivoirian Prime Minister, Soro Guillaume and foreign diplomats "were part of the celebration." 2. The paper comments, "The war is finished. Bouake sang and danced for peace yesterday. The match, between the Elephants and their Malagasy counterparts in the ex-rebels’ stronghold, was proof for observers who witnessed the event that the war is over." It goes on, "Beyond the football fiesta, we’re celebrating peace and reconciliation, and we’re asking everyone to sympathize with Bouake." 3. "Diplomats and government officials celebrate peace in Bouake," writes Le Temps, a daily close to Gbagbo, showing a picture of the Elephants’ captain, Didier Drogba. According to the paper, the fact that many foreign diplomats turned up to watch the match in Bouake was "a strong signal to the international community that peace has returned to Cote d’Ivoire." 4. 24 Heures, a daily close to the opposition, has a new name for the Elephants. It calls them: "The Champions of Reconciliation." 5. "Bouake fulfilled its promises," writes Le Front, a daily close to the New Forces. In the name of peace, "The Elephants smashed their Malagasy counterparts." The paper comments, "The Elephants’ victory is helping to push forward the peace process in Cote d’Ivoire." 6. L’intelligent d’Abidjan, a privately-owned daily, congratulates the Elephants for their "brilliant victory," and calls the game "the new barometer of peace in Cote d’Ivoire." However, the paper warns, "This celebration should not serve as a pretext to delay the upcoming general elections that should be organized before December 2007." 7. The daily, Le Jour Plus, close to the opposition, explains to readers how, "soccer has paved the way for peace in Cote d’Ivoire." "The successful organization of the match in Bouake shows that football can reconcile enemies. It also shows to the rest of the world that Cote d’Ivoire has, once again, become a destination for businessmen." 8. "Football teaches Ivoirians a lesson," comments Le Nouveau Reveil, a daily close to the former ruling PDCI-RDA party. It writes, "The war broke when international soccer players were in Bouake for a West African Football Association’s tournament. The war ended when soccer players were again in Bouake, as part of the Africa Cup of Nations 2008." 9. It continues, "To set the stage for Gbagbo and Young Patriots -- who are planning to carry their peace caravans to Bouake -- Drogba and his comrades yesterday sowed the seeds of gaiety, joy, reunification, and reconciliation." The paper concludes, "This is a good lesson in pragmatism for all our politicians." 10. "Drogba’s dream to give the population of Bouake their share of a soccer fiesta was fulfilled," writes Nord-Sud Quotidien, a daily close to the opposition. 11. "Elephants -- you’re fantastic!" exclaims Le Courrier d’Abidjan, a daily close to Gbagbo. "Bouake, thank you and see you soon!" the paper continues. According to the paper, "Bouake has recovered its smile, as the dream has become true."
June 1, 2007 1. The Elephants – the Ivoirian national football team –and its counterpart from Madagascar are set to clash this Sunday in Bouake – the New Forces’ stronghold – in the fourth leg of the African Cup of Nations (CAN) 2008 qualifiers. However, the major news in Ivoirian papers today is that the Ivoirian main opposition RDR party is embroiled in "a political turmoil following defections in the party." 2. "The RDR is torn apart: Zemogo has rendered his resignation," says a banner headline that runs across Le Jour Plus, a daily close to the opposition. According to the paper, "The division inside the party has reached a point-of-no-return, as Zemogo Fofana – one of the party’s executives -- is to launch his own party, the Democratic and Republican Alliance." 3. "The opposition is in limbo," writes Le Temps, a daily close to Gbagbo, which carries pictures of former Ivoirian President Henri Konan Bedie and former Ivorian Prime Minister Alassane Dramane Ouattara on its front-page. 5. "The relationship between Ouattara and Zemogo is over for good, following a meeting between the two men," says a front-page story carried by Nord-Sud Quotidien, a daily close to the opposition. According to the paper, "A four hour tete-a-tete could not resolve the differences between the two leaders." 6. A front-page story in Fraternite Matin says, "A meeting of RDR leaders has been postponed, as RDR president is negotiating with the defectors." 7. The state-owned daily quotes a former Ivorian Prime Minister as saying, "Soro will succeed his mission." Seydou Diarra, reports the paper, was speaking yesterday after a meeting – the first one – since the leader of the New Forces has been appointed as Prime Minister. Fraternite Matin also announces that, "President Laurent Gbagbo is expected in Libya today to participate in the Community of Sahel-Saharan States summit." 8. In a separate development, the paper carries an editorial entitled: "The Fall of the Berlin Wall." The commentary says, "The fourth leg of the African Cup of Nations 2008 qualifiers’ match due to be played in Bouake – the ex-rebellion’s stronghold – definitely marks in Cote d’Ivoire the fall of ‘our Berlin Wall’." It says, "Supporters from all walks of life will take delight in this unique moment, symbolizing the return to normalcy in the country." 9. "In the face of political maneuvers aimed at destabilizing the opposition, Bedie and Ouattara have hammered out a strategy," Le Nouveau Reveil tells its readers. The paper, which sees the hands of "Gbagbo behind the defections," wonders whether the Ivoirian leader is not in fact "preparing his own political downfall." 10. According to the paper, close to the former ruling PDCI-RDA party, "Barring the unexpected, there will be a profound reshuffle at the Presidential Palace." "The President did not appreciate the way his advisors handled the disarmament of the militia groups in the western region of Cote d’Ivoire," indicates the paper. 11. Regarding the controversy surrounding the disarmament of the militia groups, Le Matin d’Abidjan, a daily close to Gbagbo, alleges that, "Senior Presidential security and defense advisors have been accused of embezzling the money meant to compensate the former combatants for disarming." 12. "After Gbagbo gave militia groups operating in the west 280 million CFA, militia groups in the south are demanding their share," says L’inter, a privately-owned daily. The paper also comments on "measures to be put in place by the Ivoirian Interior Minister to beef up security in the Ivoirian capital, Abidjan, during the 2008 general elections." 13. In another development, the paper reports that, "Activities in the Plateau – Abidjan’s business center – were brought to standstill yesterday as Ivoirian artists clashed with IPR pirates."
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