Simone Ehivet, the former First Lady of Côte d'Ivoire, recently spoke with France 24, expressing her forgiveness towards both France and the current President of Côte d'Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara. This interview marked her first visit to France since 2011, a period that coincided with significant political and social changes in her home country. Her comments came amid ongoing discussions about the country's past and its relationship with former colonial power France. Ehivet, who was married to former President Laurent Gbagbo, is a prominent figure in Ivorian politics. She has been vocal about her family's experiences during the political turmoil that followed the 2010 presidential election, which led to a violent conflict and the eventual arrest of her husband. In her interview, she emphasized reconciliation and healing, a message that resonates with many Ivorians who have experienced the aftermath of the nation’s political strife. In addition to her comments on forgiveness, Ehivet expressed regret over the arrest of close associates of Laurent Gbagbo. She referred to them as "political prisoners," suggesting that their detention may not be justified or fair. This statement reflects her continued support for her former husband and his political allies, many of whom have been tried or imprisoned in connection with the post-election violence. Ehivet’s visit to France and her remarks have sparked discussions about the broader reconciliation process in Côte d'Ivoire. While some view her statements as a positive step toward national unity, others remain critical of the legal proceedings against Gbagbo and his associates. Her words highlight the complex and often emotional nature of political reconciliation in a country still grappling with the legacy of its recent history.