Contested leaders face off through forces

Laurent Gbagbo is the current leader of the Ivory Coast; however, according to election officials and the United Nations, he lost the last election in November. That hasn't hindered his desire to rule. His rival, and true leader of the country, is Alassane Ouattara. Forces backing Ouattara recently attacked Gbagbo's residence in Ivory Coast's main city Abidjan, in an attempt to seize him. They were faced off by Gbagbo's own forces, and the fighting continued for two days before the guns and bombs fell away in order to conduct talks. According to Ouattara's spokesman, his forces were under strict instructions not to harm Gbagbo, only to take him into custody. Ouattara demands that Gbagbo concede his defeat and recognize the legitimately elected leader of the country. French troops, along with the UN, are trying to maintain security in Abidjan, but they were not involved in the seige against Gbagbo's residence. The situation in the city has caused citizens to remain in their homes and only proceed outside with great caution. The international Criminal Court is currently investigating human rights abuses that may have occurred during this crisis. -Abbey Smith