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Annan issues warning on Ivory Coast
Again? Again.
UNITED NATIONS - UN Secretary General Kofi Annan on Wednesday said that the situation in Ivory Coast was in danger of spinning "out of control" if militias in the divided African nation are not controlled. "The mobilisation of militia-type groups is increasing nationwide," Annan said in a report to the UN Security Council. "The armed militias must be reined in and their leaders, as well as those behind them, must be held accountable."

He warned: "There is a very real danger that events may spin out of control with incalculable consequences for the people ... and the sub-region as a whole."

Annan warned that the nation was at a "critical juncture" and urged both the government and rebels to implement steps toward peace. "Time is rapidly running out for the presidential and legislative elections, scheduled to be held within the next seven months, with protracted delays in their preparation and organisation," the UN chief said.

"The international community cannot replace or substitute the political will of the Ivorian leadership and people to move the peace process forward," Annan said.
That's the first correct thing he's said in a long time.

Posted by: Steve White 2005-03-24
http://www.rantburg.com/poparticle.php?ID=59707