Monday morning, the Malagasy capital was the scene of a demonstration by the “collective of 11”, a group of presidential candidates protesting against the organization of the vote. However, the march was disrupted by the intrusion of supporters of Andry Rajoelina, former president and election candidate. This situation created additional tension in an already tense context.
Opposition supporters had gathered at the Ampasapito roundabout to express their dissatisfaction with the conditions of the electoral campaign and the lack of guarantees for free and transparent elections. They also demand that the High Constitutional Court (HCC) act impartially in the electoral process.
However, their demonstration was interrupted by the arrival of pro-Rajoelina activists, recognizable by their orange color, the color of the former president’s party. These supporters assured that they were simply there to campaign in favor of Andry Rajoelina, but their presence was seen as a provocation by the opposition.
Despite a few altercations between the two camps, the march took place generally calmly. Representatives of the collective of 11 declared that they would not give in and would continue to demand fair elections accepted by all. They also criticized the role of the HCC, accusing the institution of bias towards candidate No. 3, Andry Rajoelina.
This demonstration comes after calls from the collective of 11 to the armed forces to take their responsibilities in the face of the current political crisis. The group also announced its intention to take over the Place du 13-Mai, a highly symbolic place, to mark their determination.
This rise in tensions reflects the tense pre-election atmosphere in Madagascar. The various candidates are engaged in fierce competition, and fears of fraud and irregularities are high. It is essential that the Malagasy authorities take the necessary measures to reassure voters and guarantee the transparency of the electoral process.
It remains to be seen how the situation will evolve in the coming days and whether the protest will intensify, as announced by the candidates of the “collective of 11”. The stakes are high for Madagascar, which hopes to emerge from political instability and experience a democratic and fair electoral process.