The government of Ivory Coast has taken a significant step by announcing a ban on all student unions in the country. This decision comes in the wake of the deaths of two students and the subsequent arrest of 17 suspects following a clash between police and a student association linked to influential figures within the nation.
The ban was enforced after a government raid on student housing controlled by the student union known as FESCI, which authorities claim was involved in the fatal incidents. The National Security Council revealed that during the raid, officers uncovered a substantial amount of weapons and identified several illicit activities taking place within the student housing complex situated at the University of Abidjan.
The arrests primarily targeted the leadership of FESCI, including the general secretary, who was apprehended in connection with the reported killings. The court filing alleged that the arrested individual was informed of any criminal activities within the FESCI environment.
In response to the ban, FESCI condemned the decision as a violation of constitutional rights and denied any involvement in the tragic events. The government's action was triggered by the death of a FESCI member, who was allegedly kidnapped and killed by a rival within the union.
Established in 1990 as a student association, FESCI has a complex history of interactions with political authorities in Ivory Coast. Over the years, the group has been both persecuted and favored by different administrations, leading to its current controversial status.
Despite criticisms of violence and misconduct associated with some of its members, FESCI has garnered support from certain quarters, with arguments made that the organization should not be judged solely based on the actions of a few individuals.
Following the government's ban, efforts were made to dismantle FESCI's headquarters. However, doubts remain among students regarding the effectiveness of this measure in curbing the organization's influence, particularly its control over student housing facilities across the country.
