Ivory Coast's President Alassane Ouattara called for a cessation of hostilities now that former President Laurent Gbagbo has been captured.

"After more than four months of post-electoral crisis, marked by so many human lives lost, we are finally at the dawn of a new era of hope," Ouattara said in an address to the nation on radio and television late Monday.

More than 1 million civilians fled their homes during the four-month battle between the two rivals.
    
International leaders allied with the new the president say their country's nightmare is over. But others are concerned that deep divisions remain and more tough times lay ahead.

"If it goes the way that most of the countries have in the past, we'll see a general tightening up and restrictions applied to the freedoms we've had in the past in spreading the Gospel," Missions director Ted Jensen told CBN News.

Ouattara has discouraged speculation that Gbagbo will face an international trial for crimes committed by his soldiers. But he did call for a state investigation into the former leader's activities.

"Every measure has been taken to assure the physical integrity of Mr. Laurent Gbagbo, his wife and all those arrested," he said. "They will receive dignified treatment and their rights will be respected."

CBN News Correspondent Gary Lane talked more about the recent developments in the Ivory Coast on "The 700 Club," April 12.