The police repression during the demonstration of presidential candidates in Madagascar on October 2, 2023 sparked strong indignation and attracted the attention of the international community. Images of tear gas mixing with peaceful crowds and injured people being evacuated shocked the public.
The candidates’ objective was to meet on the Place du 13-Mai, an emblematic place for all political protests in the capital. However, a large force of law enforcement prevented their assembly, while using excessive force. The police quickly fired tear gas canisters into the crowd, causing injuries and injuries to the candidates and supporters present.
Arrests were also made, notably in the bodyguards of candidate Marc Ravalomanana. These aggressive actions by law enforcement undoubtedly exacerbated tensions and angered the candidates and their supporters.
This violent incident occurs in a context where opposition candidates are demanding free and transparent elections and questioning the composition of the interim government, the Independent National Electoral Commission (Céni) and the High Constitutional Court (HCC) , accusing them of being biased in favor of the outgoing president, Andry Rajoelina.
Despite this police repression, the candidates say they will not be discouraged and will continue to fight for their demands. They call on their supporters to assemble peacefully on public roads until their demands are heard.
This event also stoked fears of new protests and social unrest in Madagascar. The police remain pre-positioned in the city center and traders keep their gates lowered as a precaution.
It is essential that the political situation in Madagascar is resolved peacefully and that steps are taken to ensure fair and transparent elections. Violence and repression only aggravate tensions and widen the gap between the different political actors.
The eyes of the world are on Madagascar, hoping for positive developments and a peaceful resolution to the ongoing political crisis. It is important that all stakeholders engage in open and constructive dialogue to find solutions and secure a democratic future for the country.