Ivory Coast Bans All Student Unions

The Ivorian government has banned all student unions following the murders of two students, Khalifa Diomandé and Zigui Mars Aubin Déagoué, which authorities attribute to the powerful Student and School Federation (FESCI). The ban comes after police raids at Félix-Houphouët-Boigny University revealed weapons, torture tunnels, and a brothel allegedly run by FESCI, leading to multiple arrests of its members, including the leadership. Many students have reported a culture of fear and extortion within the union, with some even alleging personal threats and violence. The Security Council also expelled 5,000 undocumented residents from university campuses in a broader crackdown. The government's actions were met with celebrations among students and faculty who hope for a safer campus environment. FESCI, which started as a legitimate student organization in the 1990s, has faced increasing scrutiny for its involvement in violence and intimidation on campus.