In Ivory Coast, priest labors for peace
April 06, 2011
As forces loyal to President-elect Alassane Ouattara-- with the backing of French and UN forces-- gain the upper hand over President Laurent Gbagbo in the battle for control of Côte d'Ivoire, a parish priest is laboring for peace.
“We organize meetings between the supporters of the two presidents to try to defuse tensions and prevent misunderstandings that could lead to violence,” said Father Celestine Ikomba, who ministers in Abidjan, where the battle is taking place. “In our neighborhood, in the port of Abidjan, we support our bishops, who call for peace.”
“Our message is simple: we have to live together beyond any political differences or differences in ethnicity and religion,” he added. “It is a message that is gaining momentum in the hearts of people, who realize that violence does not lead anywhere.”
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
- Serious battle in the centre of Abidjan, while at the city's port, the parish priest works towards peace (Fides)
- Ivory Coast ex-president Laurent Gbagbo denies offer to surrender (The Guardian)
- Ivory Coast: Ouattara forces surround Gbagbo (Vatican Radio)
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
