The death of Henri Konan Bédié, former President of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, at the age of 89, has aroused deep emotion both in Côte d’Ivoire and internationally. An essential political figure in his country, Henri Konan Bédié marked the history of Côte d’Ivoire through his commitment to economic development and political stability.
Born in 1934, Henri Konan Bédié has held many key positions in Ivorian political life. He was Ambassador at the age of 26, Minister of the Economy at 32, then President of the Republic from 1993 to 1999. During his presidential mandate, he worked for the modernization of the country and the improvement of the living conditions of the population, in particular through the promotion of education and health.
But Henri Konan Bédié also left his mark as leader of the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI), the political party founded by Félix Houphouët-Boigny, father of Ivorian independence. Under his leadership, the PDCI became one of the most influential political parties in the country, playing a key role in Ivorian political life.
His death comes at a crucial moment in Ivorian political life, as the upcoming municipal, regional and presidential elections loom. Henri Konan Bédié had expressed his desire to participate in the next presidential election in Côte d’Ivoire, thus showing his determination to continue contributing to the development of his country.
The announcement of his death drew a large crowd outside his residence in Abidjan, testifying to the importance of the former president in the hearts of Ivorians. His supporters salute his leadership, dedication and vision for Côte d’Ivoire, while political leaders pay tribute to him by highlighting his role in consolidating democracy and stability in the country.
The death of Henri Konan Bédié marks the end of a political era in Côte d’Ivoire. His legacy will endure through his commitment to the development and unity of his country. Côte d’Ivoire will remember him as a visionary statesman, whose actions shaped the history of the nation.
In this time of mourning, Côte d’Ivoire pays tribute to Henri Konan Bédié and prepares to turn a page in its political history, in the hope of continuing to move towards a better future