The following report highlights major news developments in politics and health in Cote d’Ivoire on 11 August. This edition focuses on a reaction to former President Laurent Gbagbo’s decision to break away from the Ivorian Popular Front and update on COVID-19. The report includes background information to add context to the news.
POLITICS
Opposition Leader Expresses Disappointment Over Gbagbo’s Plan To Leave Party
Pascal Affi N’guessan expressed disappointment following former President Laurent Gbagbo’s 9 August decision to break away from the Ivorian Popular Front (FPI) and form a new party with the hardliners. Affi pledged to continue the political struggle with his own supporters.
Background: Since the 2010-2011 post-election crisis, the FPI has seen divisions with one (official) branch held by Affi N’guessan, a former prime minister under Gbagbo, opposed to a branch that includes the hardliners often referred to as the GOR (“Gbagbo or nothing”).
HEALTH
Six People Die of COVID-19 on 10 August
The Ivorian health authorities announced that six people died of COVID-19 on 10 August. The authorities reported 149 new cases out of 3,096 samples taken, representing 4.8 percent positive cases and 130 cured.
Background: The figure represents the highest number of deaths in Cote d’Ivoire since 3 April 2020. Moreover, the average number of new cases per day has increased by more than 100 over the last three weeks. The Minister of Health, therefore, urges all people over 18 years to be vaccinated.