UNOCI encourages people in Aniassue to become involved in the peace and national reconciliation process

As part of its regular activities to work closely with Ivorians, the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI), on Wednesday, 9 October 2013, initiated an information and sensitisation session in the sous-préfecture of Aniassué, situated 190 km, east of Abidjan.

The UNOCI delegation composed of the Public Information Office, Security Section, Military Observers and UN Police from Adzopé had discussions with the local people on various issues linked to progress in the peace and national reconciliation process.

After explaining UNOCI's mandate and those of the different military and civilian components, the delegation encouraged people to try to build good relations with the local security forces. They were also urged to cultivate peace and strengthen social cohesion and make a resolute commitment to promote forgiveness, tolerance and reconciliation in their daily lives.

The deputy prefect of Aniassué, Tokpah Soumahoro, welcomed UNOCI's initiative in organising the session and used the occasion to urge all those who were still keeping weapons to hand them in so that his constituency can once again enjoy stability. "{It is time for those who are still keeping weapons to hand them in. Do not be afraid to do this, you will not be denounced or arrested},"he reassured.

At the end of the meeting which was attended by members of the Forces républicaines de Côte d'Ivoire based in Aniassué, people asked questions to know more about UNOCI's work and understand the arms embargo as well as the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR) process.

It should be noted that people also took the opportunity to raise their concerns with the local authorities, which included organising sensitisation on human rights and building public housing.