Reconciliation should be pursued in an open and inclusive manner

"The task of reconciliation and healing must remain a priority" for Côte d'Ivoire, Kofi Annan says after a two-day visit to Abidjan.

The Elders are deeply saddened by the violence taking place in Côte d'Ivoire. While former president Laurent Gbagbo must bear primary responsibility for the conflict after he refused to step down following the latest presidential elections, The Elders emphasise that both sides must be held accountable for their actions during the fighting.