05 Nov 2018 | 11:42 AM UTC
Madagascar: Presidential elections November 7 /update 3
First round of presidential elections to be held November 7; increased security measures
Event
The first round of presidential elections will be held on Wednesday, November 7. Heightened security measures are anticipated around all election-related events and polling stations. Violence between supporters of rival parties, and between supporters and security forces, during and after the vote cannot be ruled out.
A second round of voting will be held on December 19, if necessary.
Context
The campaign period ends on November 5. Incumbent President Hery Rajaonarimampianina and 35 other candidates are running, including three of Rajaonarimampianina's predecessors, Didier Ratisraka, Marc Ravalomanana, and Andry Rajoelina.
Advice
As a precautionary measure, individuals present in Madagascar are advised to monitor local media, avoid all protests and demonstrations (as they could turn violent), and refrain from discussing domestic political issues in public.
