Mr. Bédié became the country’s second head of state following the death of Félix Houphouët-Boigny in 1993.
However, allegations of widespread corruption and an economic downturn led to his ousting in a military coup in 1999.
Born into a relatively modest family, he excelled academically and earned a scholarship to study in France, where he obtained a doctorate in economics.
He made an attempt to reclaim power three years ago but was defeated by his longtime political rival, President Alassane Ouattara.
The cause of Mr. Bédié’s death is currently unknown, but it is being felt as a significant loss across the nation.
Despite his rivalry with President Ouattara, he was often regarded as a wise leader who valued peace and advocated for national unity. Many Ivorians are paying tribute to him on social media.
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