US President Barack Obama welcomed the detention of former Ivory Coast president Laurent Gbagbo on Monday and called on his successor to "govern on behalf of all the people" of the country, dpa reported.
"The United States welcomes the decisive turn of events in Cote d'Ivoire, as former president Laurent Gbagbo's illegitimate claim to power has finally come to an end," Obama said in a statement.
"This represents a victory for the democratic will of the Ivorian people, who have suffered for far too long through the instability that followed their election."
US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said Gbagbo's departure sends a message that dictators around the world will face consequences for failing to meet the expectations of their people.
Gbagbo was captured Monday following months of bloodshed in the West African country, as he sought to hold onto power despite losing to rival Alassane Ouattara in November's election. Ouattara's forces took Gbagbo into custody after storming his compound.
"This transition sends a strong signal to dictators and tyrants throughout the region and around the world: they may not disregard the voice of their own people in free and fair elections, and there will be consequences for those who cling to power," Clinton said.
The United Nations, the United States and most of the world recognized Ouattara as the winner of the elections and condemned Gbagdo for using force to stay in power. Washington placed sanctions on Gbagdo's government.
Clinton called on Ivorians to remain calm and work toward building a better future for the country.
"Now the hard work begins," she said after meeting with Finnish Foreign Minister Alexander Stubb. "We look forward to working with President Ouattara as he implements his plan for reconciliation, economic development and recovery."
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