AFRICA/MADAGASCAR - Meditation efforts begin between the President and former mayor of the capital, with participation from the Christian Churches

Antananarivo (Agenzia Fides) - “The negotiations seem a bit tough at the moment, as the two sides remain firm in their positions,” Agenzia Fides was told by sources at Radio Don Bosco in Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, which is witnessing the worst political crisis since 2002 as a result of conflict between President Marc Ravalomanana and the Mayor of Antananarivo, Andry Rajoelina, who was forced to resign as a result of the government (see Fides 5,9, and 10 February 2009).
“President Ravalomanana wants to hold elections ahead of time, as soon as possible, while Rajoelina is calling for a transition phase during which the Constitution and electoral laws should be changed, so that the election can take place with the new law,” Fides' sources explained.
Taking part in the mediation effort is French Secretary of State Alain Joyandet, who is in Madagascar on a diplomatic mission of the Indian Ocean Commission (formed by Comoros, France, Madagascar, Mauritius, and Seychelles.
“The Christian Churches Forum of Madagascar (FFKM, formed by the Catholic Church, the Reformed Protestant Church of Madagscar, Lutheran Church, and Anglican Church) is working on the frontline in the effort,” our sources said. “The Catholic Church intends to participate in the peaceful solution through FFKM. They are expected to issue a declaration from their annual meeting, from the Permanent Committee of the Bishops' Conference of Madagascar, which is normally held in February.”
As negotiations continue, amidst difficulties, Rajoelina supporters continue to hold demonstrations in May 13 Square in Antananarivo. The two opponents are trying to demonstrate their support among the people, encouraging their own supporters.
On February 11, over 25,000 people filled the Antananarivo Stadium to show their support for the President.
In recent days, over 100 people have died in fighting between police forces and Rajoelina supporters (amongst whom were looters and rioters).
“In the capital, there are no new signs of fighting, however in the city of Toliara, in southwest Madagascar, the police shot and killed 4 people and wounded another 10 who were looting a rice storage shed. In this situation of confusion, the number of sackings has gone up: I am not so sure that this tragic event has a political motive,” Fides sources said. (LM) (Agenzia Fides 13/2/2009)