By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Former Aboulaye Traoré has been sentenced to three years in prison by a court in Bouaké for rape. The ruling was delivered on Wednesday following a case involving non-consensual sexual relations with a 21-year-old woman in March 2021. The court also ordered compensation and imposed restrictions on the ex-footballer. The verdict marks a notable development in Ivory Coast’s fight against sexual violence.
Court Verdict and Penalties
The court handed Traore a three-year jail term after finding him guilty of rape. In addition, judges ordered him to pay 15 million CFA francs (about $26,700) to the victim.
Furthermore, the court imposed a five-year ban preventing him from appearing in the central region of the country.
Details of the Case
According to a judicial source, the incident occurred in March 2021. The victim, who was 21 at the time, did not consent to the sexual act.
The case gained attention due to Traore’s public profile and past achievements in football.
Reaction from Women’s Rights Group
The Ivorian League for Women’s Rights welcomed the ruling. The group described the judgment as a “significant advance” against sexual and gender-based violence.
Moreover, the organisation stressed that the verdict sends a strong message about accountability.
Traore’s Football Legacy
Before his retirement, Traore built a strong reputation in African football. He became a fan favourite at ASEC Mimosas in Abidjan.
He also played in Europe with clubs like FC Metz and SC Braga.
Nicknamed “Ben Badi,” he was part of the Ivory Coast squad that won the 1992 Africa Cup of Nations.
Growing Focus on Justice for Sexual Violence
The ruling reflects increasing efforts to tackle sexual violence in Ivory Coast. Authorities and advocacy groups continue to push for stronger enforcement and justice for victims.
