Statement By WIPSEN-Africa on the capture of Former President Laurent Gbabgo
Over the last few hours we have watched images on local and international television of the captured of Laurent Gbagbo, WIPSEN – Africa is concerned about the handling of the situation, as this will ensure that the transition from conflict and chaos to peace and security is swift and positive.
We would like to call the Government and supporters of President elect Alassiane Ouattara to refrain from witch-hunt and summary execution of individuals linked to President Gbagbo's political and ethnic group.
WIPSEN - Africa strongly urge pro-Ouattara forces to ensure that former President Gbagbo and his family members are treated with dignity in accordance with the relevant international protocols and conventions.
WIPSEN – Africa also calls on UN to establish immediate control over security in Cote d'Ivoire until constituted security forces are in put in place in the country. Recognition of forces with no constitutional legitimacy would be a recipe for continuous violation of international humanitarian and human rights law.
The United Nations, AU, and ECOWAS should swiftly put in place an internationally established mechanism to investigate all large-scale human rights violations and abuses that may have taken place during the bloody standoff. Unless justice is seen to be done dispassionately, the capture of Gbagbo will only be the beginning of strife and massacre along regional and ethnic lines.
It is our hope that these immediate action will be taken to avoid further blood bath.
