Friday, May 6, 2011

Ouattara to be Sworn in Thursday

Ivory Coast's Constitutional Council says Alassane Ouattara will be sworn as the country's president today.  Ivory Coast's top court on Thursday declared Ouattara the winner of last year's presidential election, with 54 percent of the vote, reversing its previous ruling in favour of former president Laurent Gbagbo.
 
Gbagbo used the initial ruling to claim victory and cling to power. His refusal to leave office sparked a violent, four-month power struggle that left hundreds dead and displaced one million people. Ouattara took power last month, after his supporters captured the defiant Mr. Gbagbo in his Abidjan home with the help of United Nations and French forces.
 
In another development Thursday, the United States said it is providing another $8.5 million to help Ivorians who fled their homes during the crisis. U.S. officials say the funds will be used to provide health care, clean water and essential household items. 
 
The United States says the pledge brings to $43 million, the total amount of assistance it has provided for Ivorian refugees and those displaced inside the country.

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