In a tense political context in Madagascar, the presidential election scheduled for November 16 is causing great tensions. The outgoing president, Andry Rajoelina, candidate for his own succession, gave an exclusive interview to France 24 and RFI, in which he addresses the various challenges he faces one month before the election.
Andry Rajoelina claims that his political rivals are seeking to “prevent” the vote from taking place because they know he will be elected. However, he denies wanting to hinder opposition demonstrations and affirms that his rivals do not want an election but rather a political transition.
Rajoelina’s dual nationality, Malagasy and French, is a subject of controversy. The opposition believes that it disqualifies him from the presidential election, while the outgoing president affirms that the debate is closed, the High Constitutional Court having already ruled on this question.
Tensions within the country have also been exacerbated by accusations of an institutional coup d’état orchestrated by the government, following the rejection of appeals aimed at invalidating Rajoelina’s candidacy for lack of Malagasy nationality. The outgoing president confirms having applied for French nationality in 2014, but refutes any attempt to hide his nationality. He accuses the opposition of using this argument for political purposes.
Furthermore, Rajoelina responds to accusations that he used illegal means of eavesdropping against his opponents. He affirms that all his actions are done in compliance with the law and underlines the need for the country to equip itself with sophisticated means to ensure its security in the face of internal and external threats.
Finally, the outgoing president highlights his economic record, highlighting growth above the African average. However, he recognizes the gaps in the fight against poverty and access to water and electricity.
Despite tensions and accusations, Andry Rajoelina remains confident about his re-election. It remains to be seen how the situation will evolve in the coming weeks and what the repercussions will be on the political future of Madagascar.