Ivory Coast: Protests erupt in Abidjan as Gbagbo’s return draws near

The acquittal of the former president of Ivory Coast, Laurent Gbagbo by the International Criminal Court (ICC) might have been seen as vindicative, but hundreds are still not happy with the fact the former president has been released and will be returning to the country.

With the return of Gbagbo to Ivory Coast imminent, hundreds of civilians in Abidjan have taken to the streets to protest against his return.

Some of the protesters described Gbagbo as “a criminal who must be returned to the police”.

These statements were made as opposed to the joyous mood which some others are prepared to welcome him back to the country.

The exact date for the return of the former Ivorian president is not known yet. Ivorian Politician and Minister, Bertin Konan Kouadio has however assured it will be made public as soon as possible.

Gbagbo’s supporters around the country are equally very motivated and mobilizing themselves to welcome him back from his exile.