Ouattara to step down

Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara has stunned his critics by announcing that he will not run for a third term, putting pressure on other regional leaders to follow his example. Ouattara confirmed his decision despite the fact that the recently modified Constitution appeared to clear his path for re-election. BBC News reports that in neighbouring Guinea, there have been violent protests and opposition politicians are accusing President Alpha Condé of planning to extend his term in office.