Antananarivo, Madagascar – In the lead-up to the imminent presidential elections in Madagascar, a confrontation unfolded between demonstrators and the police, as a few hundred individuals gathered on the streets of Antananarivo in response to the call of the “collective of eleven” opposition candidates. These candidates allege that the electoral process is unfairly slanted in favour of the incumbent president, Andry Rajoelina.
The fervent crowd resorted to erecting barricades, pelting riot police with stones, and igniting tires before being eventually dispersed by the authorities. An anonymous young man, expressing his disdain for the current government, proclaimed, “I’m fighting against an incompetent government, so that the law is respected in Madagascar.”
In the midst of the chaos, another demonstrator voiced their determination to fight against “the injustice for which Rajoelina is responsible,” underlining the passionate struggle for the welfare of their country.
The skirmish resulted in the arrest of 11 individuals, with the Red Cross providing medical aid to approximately 10 demonstrators who sustained minor injuries. Moreover, the head of European diplomacy, Josep Borrell, conveyed his grave apprehension regarding the tense political climate leading up to the polls. He emphasized the European Union’s call for equal opportunities for all candidates and urged the authorities to uphold the fundamental rights of freedom of movement, expression, association, and assembly.
Recent weeks have witnessed recurrent protests by the opposition, punctuated by several instances of violence during demonstrations.
The situation remains tense as the country braces for the presidential elections amidst a backdrop of political upheaval.
African News | Jide Johnson
