Henri Konan Bédié, Former President of Côte d'Ivoire, Laid to Rest in Pepressou

Henri Konan Bédié, the former President of Côte d'Ivoire, was laid to rest in his native village of Pepressou on June 2, 2024. His burial came nearly 10 months after his death on August 1, 2023, at the age of 89.

Bédié, commonly known by his initials HKB, served as President of Côte d'Ivoire from 1993 until 1999, when he was overthrown in the country's first-ever coup. At the time of his death, he was still the president of the Democratic Party of Côte d'Ivoire (PDCI), the country's oldest political party.

The funeral attracted thousands of mourners, including delegations from various ethnic groups across Côte d'Ivoire. Pepressou, usually a village of several hundred residents, saw an influx of visitors paying their last respects to Bédié. The funeral was delayed as Bédié's family and the chiefs of his Baule ethnic group took time to choose a date and organize the details.

Ceremonies were held at the PDCI headquarters and the presidential palace in Abidjan, where a tribute to Bédié took place on May 24, 2024. During these ceremonies, mourners praised Bédié as a man of peace who had significantly supported the population.

Why this matters: The passing of Henri Konan Bédié, a former President of Côte d'Ivoire, has significant implications for the country's political landscape and its people. His legacy and contributions to the community will likely be felt for years to come, shaping the future of Côte d'Ivoire's development and politics.

In Pepressou, villagers remembered Bédié for his contributions to the community. 'He was our father, he did so much for us. I'm at a loss for words,' said Nina Aya Ipou, a hairdresser in the village. 'Despite his age and his busy schedule, he would visit us,' added Komenan Attou, a local farmer.

Born on May 5, 1934, into a family of cocoa planters, Bédié had a long political career before becoming president. He served as Minister of Economy and Finance from 1966 to 1977 and was President of the National Assembly from 1980 to 1993. During his presidency, he initiated various development projects in Pepressou, including the construction of houses and a new church.

Despite his efforts, Bédié's political career faced challenges. His plans for a second personal residence and an asphalt road connecting Pepressou to Daoukro were halted by the 1999 coup. Nonetheless, his legacy remains significant, with many in Pepressou and beyond remembering him for his contributions and dedication.

As mourners gathered to say their final goodbyes, the impact of Bédié's life and work was evident. His leadership and commitment to his community left a lasting impact, ensuring that his memory will endure in the hearts of those he touched.

Key Takeaways

• Henri Konan Bédié, former President of Côte d'Ivoire, was buried in his native village of Pepressou on June 2, 2024.
• Bédié served as President from 1993 to 1999 and was still the president of the Democratic Party of Côte d'Ivoire (PDCI) at the time of his death.
• Thousands of mourners, including delegations from various ethnic groups, attended his funeral.
• Bédié was remembered for his contributions to the community, including development projects in Pepressou.
• His legacy is expected to have a significant impact on Côte d'Ivoire's political landscape and its people.