Article: The peaceful march in Antsirabé demonstrates the enthusiasm for the elections in Madagascar
The electoral campaign in Madagascar is gaining momentum as the province finally joins the movement. This Saturday, a peaceful march took place in Antsirabé, the country’s third city, in support of the “collective of 11” which still refuses to go into campaign. This demonstration, which is one of the first organized in this town of the Highlands, testifies to the growing importance of the electoral atmosphere in the country.
The demonstrators, dressed from head to toe in white, expressed their support for the “collective of 11”. Among them, Ndriana Rakotondrainibe, a senator from the opposition MMM party, said it was important that the protests were not limited to Antananarivo, the capital, but took place in all cities in Madagascar. He also affirmed that he would be present every Saturday in Antsirabé to encourage the population to vote when the day comes.
During the march, an unexpected encounter occurred between demonstrators and supporters of the outgoing president, Andry Rajoelina. Although the two camps disagree, this confrontation demonstrates the intensity of the electoral campaign and the commitment of Malagasy citizens to the democratic process.
The population clearly expresses its dissatisfaction with Andry Rajoelina and his dual French nationality. A young woman who owned a grocery store said Rajoelina was a foreigner and there was no need for him to be president of Madagascar because the country was full of competent Malagasy candidates. This opinion is shared by many citizens who believe that the outgoing president does not represent the interests of Madagascar.
On the other hand, Andry Rajoelina’s supporters strongly support his candidacy. They believe that the opposition is showing crude opposition and that it is unfair to question the dual nationality of the outgoing president. They also point out that Rajoelina has Malagasy blood flowing through her veins through her Malagasy parents.
Antsirabé, with its 310,000 voters, represents one of the most important voting centers in the country. The active participation of the population in the peaceful march shows the commitment of the Malagasy people to the democratic process and their desire to make their voice heard during the next elections.
In conclusion, the peaceful march in Antsirabé is a clear example of the electoral atmosphere which is winning over the country. Malagasy citizens express their support for the “collective of 11” and their disapproval of Andry Rajoelina. This mobilization demonstrates the importance of the upcoming elections for the Malagasy people and their desire to make their voice heard in the democratic process.