Ceasefire – 2003
2003
The Linas-Marcoussis Agreement established a ceasefire between the rebels and the government, facilitated by ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) and French peacekeepers.
Rebel and government troops clashed throughout the spring of 2003, conducted military offensives, and accused the other side of violating the ceasefire.[1] Government forces continued to use airstrikes on rebel-held positions.[2] The government and the Forces nouvelles signed a second ceasefire in Abidjan on May 3. Rebels accused the government of undertaking an offensive to retake Danane hours before the ceasefire was signed,[3] and claimed the government launched additional offensives the day after the ceasefire.[4] However, the ceasefire appeared to stabilize after the second agreement. The government and Forces nouvelles signed a follow-up agreement in Abidjan on July 4, declaring the war to be over.
[1] “Cote d’Ivoire; Ivory Coast govt troops attacked by rebels in west,” Africa News, April 22, 2003.
[2] “France condemns violation of cease-fire by government in Ivory Coast,” The Associated Press, April 17, 2003.
[3] “Ivory Coast government, rebels sign countrywide cease-fire; fighting reported,” The Associated Press, May 3, 2003.
[4] “Ivory Coast rebels claim attack by government troops, despite recent cease-fire,” The Associated Press, May 5, 2003.