Ivory Coast’s prime minister said he would announce the composition of the country’s new government within 24 hours, a move that could bring an end to a week of violent protests sparked by the president’s dissolution of the former government.
After a day of marathon meetings between the two sides, Ivorian Prime Minister Guillaume Soro told reporters on Monday that the country’s “political players” had come to an agreement and that he planned to announce the details of the new government this morning.
His announcement came as at least two more protesters died on Monday when an opposition demonstration turned violent, deepening the political crisis that has gripped the nation of 20 million since its government was summarily disbanded by Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo earlier this month.
PHOTO: REUTERS
The protests came after top opposition leaders refused to join a new coalition government, effectively stopping the formation of the government that had been expected to be announced on Monday. Although the opposition has not yet made an official declaration, Soro spoke to reporters following a meeting of a council that includes the country’s top two opposition leaders.
“I’m pleased to announce that these talks have come to fruition and have allowed the Ivorian political players to come to an understanding to advance the process of exiting this crisis — and above all to bring peace to our country,” Soro said.
As of late Sunday, the opposition had refused to participate in a new government with Gbagbo, whom they accuse of trying to cling to power. The spat began when Gbagbo dissolved the government, saying the electoral commission committed fraud. The move will cause presidential elections to replace him, which were due to be held no later than next month, to once again be delayed.
The political dispute sparked protests in at least five cities across the country on Monday.
Bus driver Mema Camara said hundreds of men started gathering early Monday morning, building barricades, cutting off all traffic and burning tires. They hurled stones at approaching cars before riot police used tear gas and fired into the air to disperse the crowds.
“The police began beating anyone they could catch,” he said. “We hid in our houses to avoid them.”
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