Madagascar: Second round of presidential elections Dec. 19 /update 3

Event

According to official results from the first round of presidential elections released by the High Constitutional Court (HCC) on Wednesday, November 28, Andry Rajoelina led with 39.23 percent of the vote, versus Marc Ravalomanana's 35.35. As none of the candidates received an absolute majority, a second round will take place on December 19. The official electoral campaign period will start on December 3 and last for 15 days. Political gatherings and demonstrations are likely in the lead up to the second round; unrest cannot be ruled out.

Context

The first round of presidential elections was held on November 7. According to the HCC, the participation rate was 53.95 percent. Multiple candidates have claimed that irregularities occurred during the voting, calling the elections fraudulent and demanding the invalidation of the first round.

Advice

Individuals in Madagascar are advised to monitor local media, avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and refrain from discussing domestic political issues in public.