The following is a summary of major developments in Cote d’Ivoire as reported in Ivoirian traditional media on 28 April. The report focused on a profile of Defense Minister Tene Birahima Ouattara, updates on the COVID-19 situation, and reasons behind jihadist attacks in the north. The report contained editorial notes aimed at providing context to the major pieces of information.
POLITICS
Daily Describes Defense Minister as Likely Successor of President Ouattara
L’Essor Ivoirien, a pro-government daily, alleged that President Alassane Ouattara could appoint Defense Minister Tene Birahima Ouattara, his junior brother, as the new vice president. The source also described the Minister as a likely successor of the president.
(Source: L’Essor Ivoirien, page 7)
Note: Birahima was formerly the minister of presidential affairs and is currently the head of the intelligence service.
HEALTH
Health Authorities Records 22 New COVID-19 Cases
The Ministry of Health said that the country recorded 22 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 45,885 as of 27 April. To date, 45,451 people recovered, 285 others died, and there are 149 active cases.
The Ministry also said that as of 26 April, 6,295 people received COVID-19 vaccines, bringing the total number of immunized people to 125,958. The Ministry urged people who are 18+ to get vaccined.
(Source: https://news.abidjan.net/h/691416.html)
Note: The COVID-19 vaccine is free in Cote d’Ivoire, but the country is facing a lack of demand, due in part, to conspiracy theory over the efficacy of the vaccine. News of the AstraZeneca suspension in Europe also slowed down the process in the country.
TERRORISM
Report Highlights Reasons Behind Jihadist Attacks on Kafolo
According to a report by Le Nouveau Reveil, a daily close to the opposition Democratic Party of Cote d’Ivoire (PDCI), terrorist groups have targeted the town of Kafolo on the border with Burkina Faso because they seek to control its mining resources. Jihadists also target Kafolo for their supply activities, the report added.
(Source: Le Nouveau Reveil, pages 6-7)
Note: Unidentified gunmen have often launched attacks on military positions in Kafolo, raising growing concerns about jihadi activities in Cote d’Ivoire.