Electoral campaign in Antsirabe: tensions and concerns in Madagascar’s third city
The presidential election campaign is in full swing in Antsirabe, Madagascar’s third city. However, tensions between a collective of eleven candidates and the outgoing president, who is seeking a second term, are causing concern within civil society. In a context where confusion reigns, the mission of civil society observers is particularly difficult.
Since October 10, the launch date of the electoral campaign, the outgoing president has increased the number of rallies and meetings. Meanwhile, the “Collective of 11” candidates organizes peaceful marches and refuses to enter the campaign until a political agreement on the organization of the vote has not been found.
In Antsirabe, the tension is palpable and complicates the task of civil society. The members of the region’s Human Rights Observatory, responsible for monitoring the progress of the campaign, find themselves in a delicate position. By standing close to the headquarters of Andry Rajoelina, the outgoing president, they can be seen as being on his side. As a result, they prefer to observe from afar rather than actively get involved.
This situation leaves civil society in Antsirabe in a difficult position. Raising public awareness about voting is already perceived as bias for those who have decided to campaign. Vonampitiavana Rovaniaina, director of civil society organizations in the region, explains that they are forced to be very careful with what they say, so as not to be seen as siding with one side or the other. Their role is to be on the side of the people and to act in their interest.
Civil society observers dispatched to Antsirabe noted campaign conditions that are unprecedented in the country. The division between the candidates and the resulting tensions complicate their task and raise concerns about the conduct of a fair and transparent electoral process.
In conclusion, the electoral campaign in Antsirabe is marked by tensions and concerns within civil society. The standoff between the collective of candidates and the outgoing president endangers a peaceful electoral process and raises questions about the transparency and fairness of the vote. It is essential to closely monitor the evolution of the situation in this key city of Madagascar.