Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Antananarivo (Agenzia Fides)- On the eve of Madagascar's Independence Day, tomorrow 26 June, the gendarmes have arrested a group of persons, at least 8 according to some sources, suspected of belonging to a network of attackers.
In recent week in Madagascar there have been attacks with rudimental bombs in which no one was hurt. Among those arrested, there are employees of the Tiko Commercial Group owned by former President Marc Ravalomanana, who resigned in March and has since lived in exile in South Africa. Three are security guards of MBS television, also owned by the former head of state. During house searches the police found bomb making material and some petrol bombs.
The investigators, have not accused Ravalomanana directly of being implicated in the attacks, but they have said that all those arrested are his supporters and some are his employees. A presidential spokesman denied any involvement and said that Ravalomanana and his party condemn any kind of terrorism. The police have said they will continue to investigate and search for other members of the network of attackers, so more arrests can be expected in the near future. The authorities have tightened security measures in view of Independence Day as part of a “Vigie Mada” Plan, a joint undertaking of army, gendarmerie and police.
It is still uncertain whether or not Ravalomanana will return to the country to lead Independence celebrations alternative to celebrations planned by the Supreme Transition Authorities, led by Andry Rajoelina, who took power when Ravalomanana resigned. In Madagascar there are rumours that the former president is about to return by sea and to land in the port of Toamasina.
The Supreme Transition Authorities have not been recognised by the international community and so the diplomatic crops accredited to Antananarivo will not be present for the official ceremony, just as it was not present on 21 March for the swearing in of Rajoelina.
The path of mediation called for by the UN and the Southern Africa Community for Development, (see Fides 22/6/2006), appears more complicated. In recent weeks a preliminary agreement was reached to start negotiations among all the Malagasy parties, including those of Ravalomanana and Rajoelina, to decide on reforms of the Constitution and the electoral law. This process should lead to political and presidential elections. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 25/6/2009 righe 31 parole 413)
