Former President of Ivory Coast, Laurent Gbagbo Appears in Court Today

Ex President, Laurent Gbagbo, who resisted defeat to current president, Quattara, in last year’s presidential election in Ivory Coast is scheduled to appear before the International Criminal Court  today for his role in the violent uprising after the elections, and his use of force in attempt to stay in power.

According to reports, Gbagbo will face four counts of crimes against humanity.

The UN reports that the uprising resulted in the death of  about 3,000 people.

The presiding Judge, Silvia Fernandez will set a date for confirmation of the charges brought against Gbagbo.  When the hearing proceeds, prosecutors will have to convince the judges that they have accumulated substantial evidence to warrant a trial for Gbagbo.

Global Human Rights groups, however, are warning of an “explosive situation on the ground” if prosecution only focuses on crimes committed by Gbagbo, and not those committed by current Ivorian President, Quattara.