Madagascar: Pro-government rally in Antananarivo May 26 /update 7

Event

Pro-government groups have called for a demonstration to take place in Antananarivo on Saturday, May 26, in support of President Hery Rajaonarimampianin. According to local sources, demonstrators will rally at 10:00 (local time) at the Anstonjombe Coliseum, and near the Analakely City Hall. Opposition protests launched in late April to demand the resignation of the president continue to take place daily, and as such clashes between pro-government and opposition supporters are possible in the area. A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are likely.

Context

Anti-government protests entered their fifth consecutive week in Madagascar on May 21. The mobilization is linked to three controversial electoral bills passed in early April by the parliament. The vote was boycotted by opposition MPs, claiming the laws were enacted to stop opposition politician Marc Ravalomanana from running for office later in the year.

During an opposition march held on April 21, police fired teargas at demonstrators, fatally wounding two people.

On May 3, the High Constitutional Court ruled the three laws unconstitutional; however, protests have continued despite the ruling.

Advice

Individuals in Madagascar are advised to monitor developments to the situation and to avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of violence.