16 Nov 2023 | 03:06 PM UTC
Madagascar: Protests, heightened security likely nationwide through at least late November following first round of presidential elections /update 5
Further protests, increased security likely across Madagascar through at least late November following presidential elections on Nov. 16.
Increased security will likely remain nationwide through at least late November following the first round of the presidential elections on Nov. 16; it is unclear when the results will be announced. Authorities have reportedly increased police presence in the capital; authorities in Antananarivo imposed an overnight curfew in the capital from 21:00-04:00 Nov. 15-16 to avoid disruptions to the preparations; they have not announced its extension.
Election periods have historically proven tense periods in Madagascar, involving an increased risk of political violence. Security measures may include roadblocks, checkpoints, and searches of vehicles and pedestrians. The curfew could be reinstated in the event of disruptions; officials may impose additional restrictive measures, such as internet shutdowns, or entry and exit restrictions, to deter violence or in the event of significant unrest. Authorities will likely deploy heightened security along key thoroughfares and near government buildings on election day and the following days. Political gatherings and further clashes are likely nationwide on and following election day, especially in Antananarivo.
Avoid all protests due to the likelihood of violence. Exercise caution near potential demonstration sites. If violence erupts, leave the area immediately and take refuge in a secure, nongovernmental building. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent violence-affected areas. Monitor local media for details concerning political gatherings, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Follow instructions issued by local authorities. If violence erupts, leave the area immediately and take refuge in a secure, nongovernmental building.
These are Madagascar's third free elections following a 2009 coup. Exiting president Andry Rajoelina of the ruling Tanora malaGasy Vonona (TGV) party is seeking a third mandate after previously leading the transitional government from 2009-2014 and winning the 2018 election. Twelve other candidates are running, including two other former presidents, Hery Rajaonarimampianina and Marc Ravalomanana, who will likely be Rajoelina's main competition. The first round of voting was originally planned for Nov. 9 but was postponed by a week by the High Constitutional Court (HCC) due to one of the candidates being injured during a protest. Madagascar uses a two-round electoral system, with a runoff election planned for Dec. 20.
Eleven - now ten - of these candidates have called for the boycott of the election, and have been protesting under the name "collectif des 10" against Rajoelina's running due to his reported acquisition in 2014 of French citizenship. Malagasy law states that an adult national who voluntarily seeks foreign citizenship would lose their Malagasy citizenship. And since only Malagasy nationals are constitutionally permitted to run and be elected President, Rajoelina could have been unconstitutionally elected as President and could be banned from running.
Protests occurred regularly throughout the campaign despite a ban on outdoor rallies, leading to clashes with security forces across the capital, Antananarivo, especially along the Avenue de l'Independence and near the Place du 13 Mai. Police have repeatedly blocked access to the plaza, and have systematically repelled protesters with teargas and water cannons. The latest installment occurred on Nov. 11, when protesters attempted to erect barricades on the plaza and the nearby areas of Andravoahangy and Behoririka; several were injured, and 11 protesters were reportedly arrested.
