Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast – (African Boulevard News) – In a historic move of national reconciliation, Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara has proposed to name Abidjan’s fourth bridge after the country’s former president, Laurent Gbagbo. This announcement comes as a gesture to bridge the divide between the two political rivals and foster unity in the country.
The decision to name the bridge after Gbagbo is seen as a significant step towards reconciliation, as the former president remains a controversial figure in Ivorian politics. Gbagbo was ousted from power in 2011 after a bloody conflict that claimed thousands of lives. The conflict was sparked when Gbagbo refused to concede defeat in an election that Ouattara had won.
Now, amid the ongoing political tension, Ouattara’s decision to honor Gbagbo’s legacy is a significant sign of the Ivorian president’s efforts to heal the wounds of the past and unite the country. The gesture is also seen as a step towards the rehabilitation of Gbagbo’s image and a signal that he remains a notable figure in the country’s political landscape.
Commenting on Ouattara’s decision, political analyst Kofi Amoah said, “This is a bold move by President Ouattara. It shows his commitment to reconciliation and unity in the country. It is a significant step towards healing the wounds of the past and moving forward as a nation.”
The proposal to name Abidjan’s fourth bridge after Gbagbo is set to be presented at the next council meeting. The bridge is part of a broader infrastructure development plan that aims to improve connectivity and spur economic growth in the country.
The move comes as part of Ouattara’s efforts to promote unity and reconciliation in Ivory Coast, following decades of conflict that have left deep scars in the country’s social and political fabric.
In conclusion, Ouattara’s decision to name the bridge after Gbagbo is a welcome step towards national reconciliation in Ivory Coast. It will help unite the country and promote a sense of shared identity, moving beyond the divisions of the past. The gesture is a tribute to Gbagbo’s legacy and serves as a reminder that political differences must not be allowed to divide a nation.
