The former president of Ivory Coast Henri Konan Bédié has died.
He was 89.
Mr Bédié took over as the country's second head of state after the death of Félix Houphouët-Boigny in 1993.
But allegations of widespread corruption and an economic slump led to him being ousted in a military coup in 1999.
Despite being born into a relatively poor family, he excelled at school and was picked to study in France where he gained a doctorate in economics.
He attempted to return to power three years ago but was defeated by his long-time political rival President Alassane Ouattara.
The cause of Mr Bédié‘s death is unknown.
His death will be felt as a big loss for the whole country.
Despite his rivalry with President Ouattara, he was mostly seen as a wise man who always cherished peace and an advocate for national unity.
Many Ivorians are paying tribute to him on social media.
Latest Stories
-
Ghanaian youth unaware of their right to hold politicians accountable – Youth Bridge Foundation
43 mins -
Judge delays Trump sentencing for a third time
60 mins -
2024 WAFCON: Ghana drawn against defending champions South Africa in Group C
1 hour -
Photos from DW-JoyNews street debate on ‘galamsey’
2 hours -
Mimmy Yeboah: Blending heritage with global sophistication, confidence redefined through couture
2 hours -
100 Most Influential People Awards 2024: Brain Hill International School’s Director Mary Anane Awuku honoured
3 hours -
Akufo-Addo commissions 97-km Tema-Mpakadan railway line
3 hours -
Majority requests recall of Parliament
3 hours -
Kanzlsperger and Professor Quartey support WAFA with medical Donation
3 hours -
Gideon Boako donates 10 industrial sewing machines to Yamfo Technical Institute
4 hours -
‘Golden Boy’ Abdul Karim Razak honored at WAFU-B general assembly
4 hours -
Buipewura Jinapor secures Vice Presidential position in National House of Chiefs with record votes
4 hours -
2024 election: I want results to come out like ‘milk and honey’ – Toobu
4 hours -
Ghana’s Henry Bukari hands over chairmanship of ECOWAS Brown Card Council of Bureaux
4 hours -
Residents of Dome-Kwabenya on edge ahead of December elections
5 hours