The former president of Ivory Coast Henri Konan Bédié has died.

He was 89.

Mr Bédié took over as the country's second head of state after the death of Félix Houphouët-Boigny in 1993.

But allegations of widespread corruption and an economic slump led to him being ousted in a military coup in 1999.

Despite being born into a relatively poor family, he excelled at school and was picked to study in France where he gained a doctorate in economics.

He attempted to return to power three years ago but was defeated by his long-time political rival President Alassane Ouattara.

The cause of Mr Bédié‘s death is unknown.

His death will be felt as a big loss for the whole country.

Despite his rivalry with President Ouattara, he was mostly seen as a wise man who always cherished peace and an advocate for national unity.

Many Ivorians are paying tribute to him on social media.