Religious leaders ask prayers for peace in volatile Ivory Coast

December 13, 2010

Religious leaders In Ivory Coast have called for prayer and fasting, and begged their people not to “give in to provocations and violence from whatever side,” as a dispute over election result threatens the stability of the African country.

Although challenger Alassane Ouattara was certified on December 2 as the winner of November 28 presidential elections, a second election panel ruled that the incumbent, President Laurant Gbagbo, was the real winner. Most international leaders have recognized Ouattara, but Gbagbo refuses to relinquish power and the situation remains volatile.

Religious leaders called for intensive fasting and prayer from December 13 through December 18. They also urged the European Union to penalize “those who do not want to accept the election results”—apparently referring to Gbagbo.

 

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Further information:

• Religious leaders announce six days of prayer and fasting for peace (Fides)