In Ivory Coast, the authorities announced Thursday October 17 the dissolution of all student union associations. This decision follows the assassination of two students at the end of August and September. The prosecution opened two judicial investigations, and 17 students, including the leader of Fesci, the powerful student union organization, were arrested at the beginning of October.
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With our correspondent in Abidjan, Bineta Diagne
At Félix Houphouët-Boigny University, Abidjanopinions are divided. Some, like Sarata, a 2nd year student, express a certain bitterness: “ Things there are negative. But they ensured the safety of studies. Each time, they came to the lecture halls to provide information and they also led the students’ struggle. »
Conversely, this dissolution also brings relief. “ They scared me. I always had the impression that they were the ones who ruled the roost here, preventing us from following our classes properly because of their activities. So, if there are no more gatherings, that’s a good thing, it will allow us to move forward with classes. »
Also readIvory Coast: authorities announce the dissolution of student unions
Liberation of university rooms
Authorities have vacated nearly 5,000 illegally occupied rooms in recent days. Most of these accommodations were informally controlled by trade union organizations, such as Fesci. The Ministry of Higher Education announced the opening of a process for the reallocation of these accommodations. Enough to revive the hope of several students, such as Paul, who currently shares a room in Yopougon “ I never applied, because there was no equity within Fesci. Who passes off those who maybe give them money to get a room. »
Two organizations, Unesci (National Union of Students of Côte d’Ivoire) and Respect (Student Network of Private and Technical and Professional Education) denounce a measure ” illegal “, which, according to them, violate freedom of association. They intend in particular to refer the matter to the Constitutional Council.
Also listenStudent unions dissolved in Ivory Coast: “It was time for the public authorities to pacify the academic space”