The Ivory Coast government has taken a decisive step to quell escalating violence on university campuses by dissolving all student union associations, including the powerful FESCI.
This move comes in response to the tragic deaths of two students allegedly at the hands of FESCI members.
President Alassane Ouattara, after a National Security Council meeting, approved the dissolution of the student unions.
FESCI, in particular, has been accused of creating a climate of fear on Abidjan campuses.
Several FESCI members have been arrested in connection with the murders, including the leader Sie Kambou, who is suspected of involvement in the killing of Zigui Mars Aubin Deagoue, a rival.
FESCI has been criticized for its monopolistic control over university housing, setting exorbitant prices for students.
The government’s crackdown has led to the arrest of 28 students and the expulsion of thousands from student housing.
Additionally, authorities have seized a significant number of weapons, including machetes and grenades.
FESCI, established in the 1990s, has a history of political activism, having been involved in protests against past governments.
Notably, former leaders Guillaume Soro and Charles Ble Goude played roles in the 2010-2011 political violence that claimed thousands of lives.