Abidjan: Heavy fighting has been reported between forces loyal to the UN-recognised president, Alassane Ouattara, and supporters of incumbent Laurent Gbagbo in Abidjan.
Witnesses have reported hearing intense gunfire near Gbagbo’s residence, while Ouattara’s supporters say they have taken control of state television.
His government earlier closed Ivory Coast’s borders and declared a curfew.
Gbagbo has refused to relinquish the presidency since November’s election.
But the national army has put up almost no resistance since Ouattara’s supporters launched an offensive on Monday.
Pro-Ouattara forces reportedly now control about 80 percent of the country.
As the battle for control of the country appeared to reach a climax, gunfire was heard around several strategic buildings in Abidjan.
Heavy fighting was reported close to the headquarters of RTI state TV and Gbagbo’s residence, both in the northern district of Cocody.
“The gunfire has been intense and they’re shooting in four or five directions at a time. There’s a lot of people,” a resident told media. “It looks like a final assault.”
A spokesman for Ouattara’s government, Patrick Achi, said the former president had so far shown no signs of giving up.
Achi said Ouattara loyalists had taken control of RTI. This could not be confirmed, but the channel went off-air late on Thursday.
A spokesman for Gbagbo said his forces were still fighting at the TV station.
Gbagbo has not been seen in public for weeks. His residence is mainly protected by members of the elite presidential guard, and is located on a peninsula in Abidjan’s lagoon.
“Gbagbo is in his house. I’m certain. He hasn’t gone anywhere,” said Achi.
Dear TNT Reader,
At The News Tribe, our mission is to bring you free, independent, and unbiased news and content that keeps you informed and empowered. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism, as we understand that we are a platform for truth.
Apart from independent global news coverage, we also commit our unique focus on the Muslim world. In an age marked by the troubling rise of Islamophobia and widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in Western media, we strive to provide accurate and fair coverage.
But to continue doing so, we need your support. Even a small donation of 1$ can make a big difference. Your contribution will help us maintain the quality of our news and counteract the negative narratives that are so prevalent.
Please consider donating today to ensure we can keep delivering the news that matters. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, and work towards a more inclusive, informed global society.
Donate Monthly Subscription Annual Subscription