Thousands celebrate return of Charles Blé Goudé to Ivory Coast

Thousands of supporters cheered on Saturday the return to Ivory Coast of Charles Blé Goudé, a key figure involved in the violence that followed the 2011 presidential elections.

I vorian President Alassane Ouattara, who earlier this year pardoned his predecessor Laurent Gbagbo in the name of national reconciliation, has approved the return.

"In reality when I was told to come, it was frank, it was sincere. That is why I thank you here in Yopougon, the Ivorian authorities for having facilitated (my return, ed.) among you. If I see you today it is thanks to them", said Charles Blé Goudé in front of a crowd.

Addressing supporters in Abidjan, Blé Goudé, thanked the Ivorian authorities for facilitating his return and said his "duty" was to "support the peace process".

"I have arrived, I will gather all the information. In this same place, we will hold a political rally where I will discuss all the issues. And as the press is here, I ask them to come in a few weeks to a big press conference where we will discuss all the issues, I mean all the issues", promised Blé Goudé.

The former right-hand man to ex-president Laurent Gbagbo was acquitted of crimes against humanity by the International Criminal Court last year.