Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Antananarivo (Agenzia Fides) - “The situation is extremely tense, but we are still hopeful of finding a peaceful solution to the crisis,” Agenzia Fides was told by local Church sources in Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, where there were clashes yesterday (January 26) between police and supporters of the mayor (Andry Rajoelina), a political opponent of President Marc Ravalomanana.
“Today, as well, the police have sprayed tear gas on participants in a demonstration in the capital. However, the situation is a bit more tranquil. The city has been deserted. The schools and offices and businesses have remained closed. The mayor came out in person to address his supporters, asking them to end the protest,” Fides sources said. Our source has wished to remain anonymous for security reasons.
“The international community has made a mediation effort between the President and the mayor of Antananarivo, as has the Catholic Church and the Ecumenical Forum that includes the main Christian Churches, all working in favor of peace and reconciliation,” our source added. “There are signs of hope for talks; President Ravalomanana has in fact left the door open for talks, launching an appeal for dialogue.”
The riots broke out on the first day in which the opposition went on strike to protest the government decision to close “TV Viva,” owned by Mayor Rajoelina. The government had imposed the closing of the television last December, after it aired a program with the President in exile, Didier Ratsiraka, speaking.
The protesters sacked and destroyed businesses and set fire to the national television and President Ravalomanana's property, which also holds a radio, two newspapers, a construction company, and one of the most important food associations in the country. The crowd also broke into the city jail and freed three young men arrested just hours beforehand for attacking government buildings. “Among the crowd were those who simply wanted an excuse to damage businesses and warehouses of the Tiko chain, owned by Ravalomanana. In other cities, as well, there were also signs of sacking,” our source added. According to police headquarters, two persons were found dead as a result of yesterday's chaos.
In the meantime, “Radio Viva” (the radio station that also belongs to Rajoelina), is once again on the air, after having gone off-air yesterday. (LM) (Agenzia Fides 27/1/2009)
