Ivory Coast, Part 3

Since my last update, the tensions in Cote d'ivoire have mounted in to turned into full-blown riots and protests, as incumbent President Laurent Gbagbo is clearly seen as the loser. Like many people who cling to power, Gbagbo will not concede even though most of the country, the United Nations, and the West are backing his opponent, former prime minister, Alassane Quattara. In truth, it looks as if Mr. Quattara did win last month's election, and still, Gbagbo will not give up his power.

Now this has not been as peaceful as the West would like it to be. UN peacekeepers have been protecting Quattara, who is currently residing in a hotel, and trying to keep Quattara's supports from rekindling violence against the Christian south. Yes, that's right, Quattara is from the Northern part of Cote d'ivoire, which is known for being heavily Muslim and of which, he is one as well. About decade ago, tensions between both religions mounted a civil war, that tore the country into two distinct areas. In the past few years, tensions have subsided and peace masked the problems for a time. Now it did not help the situation when Quattara told his supporters to take the streets and protest his victory and to tell Gbagbo to leave.

Since that statement from the former prime minster, violence has erupted in the streets, claiming the lives of at 20 people, possibly more. Despite the seemly overwhelming support of Quattara, many Ivorians have mixed feelings about the current situation. I think you have some doubts when the person who wins the election, tells you to enforce his victory by violent protest. And this situation has caused a decline in the country's export, namely their main cash crop, cocoa. Prices have jumped almost 5% in the UK alone. So while the UN polices the situation and finds a method of removing the incumbent president, Ivory Coast seems as though it is heading down a similar path.

It is truly sad, as this country was seen as the pinnacle of African peace and prosperity, not too long ago. Yet it has become another country tangled in the web of religion freedom or more realistically, intolerance and persecution. Another country to fall to power hungry demagogues, who prey off the hopes and fears of people, people who just blinded by those same hopes and fears. People who mean well, but want to go back to a former status quo that was more appealing and seemed to adequately meet their needs. It is as if the blinders have been put up and "big brother," resides over us, telling us what is the appropriate course of action.

Again my heart goes out to countries as such because there is a good chance that the denizens of said countries, just want establishment. They want figure heads, politicians or religious leaders, to helm their movements and maintain a certain level of order. Because they choose not to question motives, they become slaves to will of the only man thinking, the very same man who only wants a name, a position, money, power, and really, control.

…only my thoughts.