"In the working-class neighbourhood of Yopougon in Abidjan, at the famous Sapeurs-Pompiers crossroad, the aroma of grilled chicken and fish wafts through the air, as food stalls compete for attention along a stretch of lively local eateries. But the bustling intersection in the country's economic capital normally packed with crowds late into the night now empties out much earlier than usual, as residents rush home before dark in fear of election-related violence and because of the lingering presence of two police trucks always parked nearby."
"The trucks have been on patrol there every day since October 10, when the campaign for this weekend's presidential polls began. They are among some 44,000 police and soldiers the government has deployed nationwide to, it says, guarantee a secure and peaceful election. While the officers at the Sapeurs-Pompiers crossroad stay inside their vehicles, their presence has deepened a sense of unease felt by many across the West African nation."
Civil society groups and opposition figures in Ivory Coast call for shutdowns and boycotts as President Alassane Ouattara pursues a fourth presidential term. Heavy security is visible in Abidjan's Yopougon neighbourhood, where food stalls and busy intersections empty early because residents fear election-related violence and the constant presence of police trucks. The government has deployed some 44,000 police and soldiers nationwide, citing the need to guarantee a secure and peaceful vote. Many officers remain inside vehicles, a presence that deepens public unease. Citizens report waking before dawn and avoiding travel after dark because of traumatic memories of the September 2002 coup attempt.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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