The start of the electoral campaign for Madagascar’s presidential election in 2023 was marked by a surprising decision on the part of 11 of the 13 candidates in the running. In fact, these candidates, who have been demonstrating since the beginning of the month, have decided not to participate in the official campaign and to favor protest.
This decision is motivated by several demands. First of all, the candidates demand the disqualification of the outgoing president, Andry Rajoelina, because of his French naturalization. They also demand a recomposition of the institutions linked to the organization of the vote.
During a mediation session organized by church leaders, the candidates confirmed their decision not to start their campaigns for the moment. They first want to wait for the arrival of a delegation from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and learn its conclusions before making a final decision.
The candidates also expressed concern about unequal treatment during the protests. They stressed that Andry Rajoelina supporters were able to demonstrate without being disturbed, while opposition supporters were faced with police repression in some cities.
Furthermore, one of the opposition candidates, Andry Raobelina, was injured by a tear gas grenade and had to be evacuated abroad to receive treatment. He filed a petition with the High Constitutional Court (HCC) to request the postponement of the election due to this emergency situation. The opposition candidates hope that the HCC will take this request into account and be consistent in its decisions.
The political situation in Madagascar therefore remains tense and uncertain as the presidential election approaches. The demonstrations and the contestation of the candidates reflect the deep divisions within the country. It is important to closely follow the evolution of this electoral campaign and to see how the different actors will react in the coming days.