As the presidential elections which will be held in Madagascar on November 16 approach, political tensions are rising to a crescendo. In an exclusive interview granted to France 24 and RFI, the outgoing president and candidate for his own succession, Andry Rajoelina, expressed his concerns about the attempts of some of his rivals to hinder the smooth running of the election.
According to Andry Rajoelina, some of his opponents would like to prevent the elections from taking place because they fear his certain victory. The outgoing president denies intending to obstruct opposition protests, arguing that his rivals do not want an election but rather a transition.
Another controversy surrounds the dual nationality of Andry Rajoelina, who has both Malagasy and French nationality. The opposition believes that this dual nationality disqualifies him from the presidential election. However, Andry Rajoelina maintains that the question was decided by the High Constitutional Court, which validated his candidacy.
Last month, ten opposition candidates denounced an “institutional coup” orchestrated by the government due to the rejection of three appeals aimed at invalidating the candidacy of Andry Rajoelina for lack of Malagasy nationality. It was revealed that the outgoing president had obtained French nationality in 2014.
Andry Rajoelina confirms this request for French nationality, affirming that he did so with the aim of passing it on to his children. He refutes any accusation of concealing his French nationality, accusing the opposition of using this argument for political ends.
Asked about the allegations of the resigning president of the Senate, according to which Andry Rajoelina threatened him to leave his post, the latter denies it outright. He explains that these tensions within his party are the result of a “fratricidal war”.
Finally, Andry Rajoelina addresses the revelations of the European media concerning the illegal use of listening means to monitor his opponents. He affirms that all the actions carried out are legal and insists on the need for Madagascar to equip itself with sophisticated security means in the face of internal and external threats. He firmly maintains that he does not spy on his opponents.
Despite the controversies and tensions, Andry Rajoelina defends his record by highlighting economic growth above the African average. However, he recognizes the inadequacies in the fight against poverty and access to water and electricity.
In conclusion, one month before the presidential elections in Madagascar, political tensions are intensifying. Andry Rajoelina, outgoing president and candidate for his own succession, finds himself facing accusations concerning his dual nationality and allegations of illegal wiretapping. Despite this, he remains confident of his victory and defends his economic record, while recognizing the remaining challenges in the country. The holding of these elections will be decisive for the political future of Madagascar.