Henri Konan Bédié, former president of the Ivory Coast, has passed away.
He was 89.
After Félix Houphout-Boigny passed away in 1993, Mr. Bédié became the nation’s second head of state.
But he was overthrown in a military coup in 1999 as a result of significant corruption allegations and a downturn in the economy.
Despite coming from a modest background, he did exceptionally well in school and was chosen to study in France, where he earned a doctorate in economics.
Three years ago, he made an effort to regain control of the country, but President Alassane Ouattara, a longtime political rival, defeated him.
It is unknown what caused Mr. Bédié’s death.
His passing will be seen as a significant loss for the entire nation.
He was generally regarded as a knowledgeable guy who always treasured peace and a supporter of national unity, notwithstanding his rivalry with President Ouattara.
On social media, a lot of Ivorians are paying tribute to him.