There are rumours and reports of a possible coup or large-scale uprising in Ivory Coast, particularly in Abidjan, where gunfire has been heard.
Reports emerging from the ground and social media suggest a volatile and fast-unfolding crisis.
According to reports, at least 33 people have been killed over the past 48 hours as clashes intensified in key areas of the capital, Abidjan.
The unrest followed widespread dissatisfaction with President Alassane Ouattara’s administration, accused of severe human rights abuses, increasing poverty and maintaining deep ties with France.
Protesters accuse the Ouattara-led government of being a puppet of foreign powers, particularly France and the U.S. with growing criticism aimed at the recent expansion of AFRICOM presence in the region.
However, official confirmation remains unclear, as internet access has reportedly been cut off, and government visibility is fading.
Some sources claim that President Ouattara may be missing, arrested, or possibly deceased, but there has been no official statement from the government.
Meanwhile, fact-checkers have flagged some viral videos as misleading, stating that there is no verified evidence of a military takeover.
Given the uncertainty, international organisations and embassies are on high alert, urging citizens to shelter in place.
This is not the Ivory Coast’s first encounter with instability. The nation has previously endured a 1999 coup, civil wars from 2002-2007 and 2010-2011, and a military mutiny in 2017.
Credit: The Conclave
