Ivory Coast: A Bad Start

By Scott Morgan

2017 is here. When the calendar changes over, there is sense of renewal and hope that is felt by the celebrants. The bad news and events of the previous year are relegated to the History Books.

Sadly, that appears not to be the case for Côte D’Ivoire. So far there have been a couple of high profile Security Alerts in the Country that have raised the spectre of concern regarding the future of the Ouattara Presidency and possibly the future of the West African Nation itself.

Earlier this month a mutiny occurred among elements of the Security Forces that were absorbed into the force after the First Civil War was brought to a conclusion back in 2007. The rebels were demanding that several promises made to them - such as a stipend and housing - be fulfilled. In an effort to ensure that their voices were heard they took several hostage including the Minister of Defence.

The Government then agreed to their demands and in a shake-up the Minister of Defence and two other Security Ministers were fired. Whereupon the Soldiers that steadfastly remained loyal to the Government grew angry with this turn of events and let their feelings known.

In another move some gendarmes move to seize the port of San Pedro. This port is a crucial economic lifeline to the Country as it is a crucial factor in the Cocoa Trade. The reason given for this action was that the Security Forces were not happy with the pay that they have been getting.

What has been going on in the Country? The Inflation Rate for December 2016 was at -.02% for that month and it is forecast to be at  0.7% at this time right now. Could the low Cocoa Prices have reduced the amount of Forex that the Central Bank has in the coffers? That could be the culprit.

Whatever the reason, unpaid Security Forces themselves become a Security Issue. The Guardians of the State should receive adequate compensation for their services. However, this raises concerns that these members can add to their income by nefarious means and activities. This is a situation that should be monitored.


[The views expressed in this publication are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dissecting Society]