Gbagbo’s lawyers have been criticizing the former strongman’s poor conditions of detention. Habiba Toure, one of Gbagbo’s lawyers, told the press that as a former head of state, Gbagbo was entitled to special procedures and could not be charged in the regular manner, as the prosecutors had done.

Lawyers for former Ivory Coast president Laurent Gbagbo have rejected charges against him, saying the procedure was ‘‘unconstitutional’’.

‘‘As a former Head of State, Gbagbo enjoys immunity from suit or criminal charges. His wife Simone is also a member of parliament. As such, she enjoys immunity as well. The way they have been charged is illegal; it is a clear breach of the Ivorian constitution. And I am worried’’, lawyer Habiba said.

In Abidjan, many people say the ongoing judicial procedure might hinder the reconciliation process and re-open healing wounds by creating suspicion and fear among the populations.