Côte d’Ivoire’s former president Laurent Gbagbo on Thursday asked the International Criminal Court a release without conditions while awaiting the prosecution’s appeal against his acquittal. More than 3,000 people died on both sides after Gbagbo refused to concede defeat to his internationally backed-rival – and now president – Alassane Ouattara. Gbagbo and Ble Goude were accused of playing a role in murder, rape, persecution and other inhumane acts during the post-electoral violenceThe Hague-based court acquitted Gbagbo on crimes against humanity charges, saying prosecutors had failed to prove any case against him. On Wednesday, his defense said Gbagbo would like to return home and possibly participate in some form in October’s presidential election. Gbagbo has not said whether he intends to run again for the presidency.

Source: The North Africa Journal February 07, 2020 13:18 UTC