Annan appeals for maximum restraint in Côte d'Ivoire as political tensions increase

With progress in the Côte d'Ivoire peace process being limited and deadlines for the implementation of provisions falling behind schedule, the security situation is precarious and mobilization of militia-type groups is increasing across the West African country, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan says in a new report to the Security Council.

"I call upon the Ivorian parties and in particular those controlling the militia groups to exercise maximum restraint and to refrain from resorting to violence, as a means of advancing their political aims," he says.

"The armed militias must be reined in and their leaders, as well as those behind them, must be held accountable, including for their attacks against the civilian population and peacekeepers. There is a very real danger that events may spin out of control with incalculable consequences for the people of Côte d'Ivoire and the sub-region as a whole."

Despite the laudable efforts of President Thabo Mbeki of South Africa and the African Union (AU), the country remained effectively divided, he says.

"The serious decline of the Ivorian economy continues, which increases political tensions and worsens the social conditions in the country. Human rights abuses continue both in the south and in the north, with little or no effort being made to curtail the widespread culture of impunity," Mr. Annan says.

The south is ruled by the Government, while the north is controlled by the rebel Forces Nouvelles, with UN and French Licorne peacekeepers stationed between.

Mr. Annan appeals to President Laurent Gbagbo, the opposition Forces Nouvelles and all political leaders to carry out the AU plan of action without delay.