Madagascar: Low turnout during election runoff December 19 /update 5

Event

The second round of the presidential elections opposing Andry Rajoelina to Marc Ravalomanana took place peacefully, with a low turnout, on Wednesday, December 19. The provisional results are expected between December 26 and January 1, with the official results expected to be released on January 9. Political gatherings are possible ahead and after the release of the results; clashes between supporters of both parties are possible, especially as both candidates have already declared victory. Heightened security measures are likely in major urban centers, notably in the capital Antananarivo.

Context

The first round of presidential elections was held on November 7. According to the HCC, the participation rate was 53.95 percent. Andry Rajoelina led with 39.23 percent of the vote, versus Marc Ravalomanana's 35.35. 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.