The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has learnt with dismay the news on the mutiny by ex-combatants in the barracks in several cities of Côte d’Ivoire, notably in Bouaké, Daloa and Korhogo on Friday, 6th January 2017.

The Commission understands that the mutineers seized weapons from two police stations in the country’s second city, Bouake, and took up positions at its entry points, while gunfire was also reportedly heard in Daloa town.
The ECOWAS Commission, wishes to state it’s displeasure over the use of force by the military against the government and civilians, in the advancement of their demands.

The ECOWAS Commission stands strongly with the government and people of the Cote d’Ivoire in this moment of national apprehension and calls on the armed Forces to maintain law and order, while channeling their grievances through appropriate official channels.

The ECOWAS Commission strenuously urges the mutineers to conduct themselves in a civil manner and engage in dialogue in order to preserve the achievements made in post-conflict reconstruction and the climate of peace in the country.