The race for the presidential election in Madagascar has entered a critical phase, one month before the vote scheduled for November 16. The outgoing president, Andry Rajoelina, candidate for his own succession, spoke in an exclusive interview with France 24 and RFI from Antananarivo. He responded to the tensions shaking the country and the accusations of his political rivals.
Andry Rajoelina claims that his rivals are seeking to prevent the presidential vote from taking place because they know full well that he will be elected. The opposition’s almost daily demonstrations are seen as a desire for transition rather than an election, according to the outgoing president.
One of the most controversial points of his candidacy is his dual Malagasy and French nationality. Andry Rajoelina believes that the debate is closed, the High Constitutional Court having ruled that he could stand for election. He explains that he obtained French nationality in 2014 in order to benefit his children, but assures that he has hidden nothing on this subject.
Accusations of an institutional coup d’état orchestrated by the government are also rejected by Andry Rajoelina. According to him, tensions within his party are at the origin of these accusations and he denies any threat towards the resigning president of the Senate.
Finally, the outgoing president addressed revelations that he used illegal wiretapping against his opponents. He claims that everything he does is within the legal framework and that he does not listen to his opponents. He justifies this measure as a necessity to protect the country from internal and external dangers.
Despite criticism and tensions, Andry Rajoelina defends his record and highlights the economic growth higher than the African average recorded during his mandate. However, he recognizes the gaps in the fight against poverty and access to water and electricity.
As the date of the presidential election approaches, the political situation in Madagascar remains tense. Andry Rajoelina’s statements during this exclusive interview shed light on his vision of the situation and his defense of his record. It remains to be seen what the outcome of this election will be and what impact it will have on the political future of the large island in the Indian Ocean.