Article – News: Death of former Ivorian president Henri Konan Bédié
The announcement of the death of former Ivorian President Henri Konan Bédié plunged the town of Daoukro into deep sadness. Nicknamed “the baobab”, Bédié was a popular and respected leader, considered a father and grandfather by the city’s inhabitants. His disappearance created an immense void, marking the end of an era for Daoukro.
Despite the ethnic tensions that marred his mandate, mourning unified the population. The inhabitants of Daoukro put aside all differences to mourn the loss of their “dad”. The streets of the city are calm and gloomy, reflecting the state of mind of the inhabitants who are all affected by the disappearance of the man they considered a pillar of the community.
During his last years, Bédié preferred to reside in Daoukro, abandoning his residence in Abidjan. He had established a strong connection with the city, owning a vast estate of plantations. This connection was so deep that the city’s central square is named after him today. Residents remember times when PDCI executives paraded through his home.
Now that the “Sphinx of Daoukro” is no more, Daoukro impatiently awaits the announcement of the funeral ceremonies which will allow the population to pay a final tribute to their former president. Bédié should be buried near Daoukro, in the locality of Pepressou. President Alassane Ouattara has already declared ten days of national mourning starting today.
The death of Henri Konan Bédié marks the end of an era for Daoukro. It is an immense loss for the city and its inhabitants who are mourning the disappearance of their “dad”. The sadness is palpable in the quiet streets of the city, testifying to the impact that Bédié had on the community. His legacy will remain anchored in the memories of Daoukro and all of Côte d’Ivoire.