Ouattara supporters occupy Ivorian embassy in Paris

Taking matters into their own hands, supporters of Ivory Coast’s president-elect Alassane Ouattara have occupied their country’s embassy in Paris.

No violence was reported. Staff loyal to incumbent Laurent Gbagbo apparently left peacefully.

The takeover came as France said it would accredit a new Ivorian ambassador at the request of Ouattara’s government.

“All the ambassadors and diplomats named by Laurent Gbagbo were recalled two weeks ago,” said Marcel Youpeh, a representative of the Ivorian RHDP opposition coalition in France. “So we believe our officials should take over these posts.”

“The people of Ivory Coast have decided to put Alassane Ouattara’s government in place and we plan to see it through to the bitter end to make that happen,” added opposition supporter Mahmoud Meite.

Police blocked access to the building near the Arc de Triomphe as tension rose and Laurent Gbagbo’s international isolation increased yet further.

He claims he won last month’s disputed election and refuses to stand down, even though the international community recognises Ouattara as the winner.

Copyright © 2013 euronews