26 Jun 2020 | 07:44 AM UTC
Madagascar: Independence Day celebrations to take place June 26
Madagascar to celebrate Independence Day on June 26; heightened security and disruptions to businesses and transportation expected
Event
Madagascar will celebrate its Independence Day on Friday, June 26. A military parade is expected to be held along Avenue de l'Independance and Arabe Andrinampoinimerina in the capital Antananarivo. The date is also a public holiday and is typically observed with festivals and other commemorative events.
A heightened security presence is also expected across Madagascar and large gatherings are likely. Business, commercial, and transportation disruptions are expected.
Context
Madagascar gained its independence on June 26, 1960, following six decades of French colonial rule. In 2016, a grenade attack at an Independence Day concert in Mahamasina stadium in the capital left three dead and 90 others wounded.
Advice
Members in Madagascar are advised to anticipate government, business, and transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, and avoid large public gatherings as a precaution.
