ABIDJAN - Cote d'Ivoire's embattled Laurent Gbagbo proposed a cease-fire from United Nations (UN) mission in the country, as forces loyal to his rival, the internationally recognized president Alassane Ouattara were reported to have seized control of the presidential residence in Abidjan, according to media reports on Tuesday.

The president, who refused to cede power after a disputed presidential run-off, is said to have been hunkered down in a bunker at his residence.