Madagascar's 2023 presidential election is crucial for the island's future, but it's off to a rocky start
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Tuesday, November 7, 2023
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I’ve studied Madagascar’s politics – focusing on democratisation and political transitions – and believe that this election is crucial for the consolidation, or deepening, of democracy.
Key Points:
- I’ve studied Madagascar’s politics – focusing on democratisation and political transitions – and believe that this election is crucial for the consolidation, or deepening, of democracy.
- It fosters political stability, protects individual rights, and ensures that power is exercised by elected representatives who are accountable to the people.
- If this election is successful it would be the second peaceful transfer of power since the 2009 coup d'état.
- The election is also important for the improvement of the economic and social conditions of Madagascar’s population.
Uncertainty ahead
- Rajoelina has held this office twice, as the president of the High Transitional Authority of Madagascar (2009–2014) and president (2019-2023).
- He resigned in September as the constitution requires that the incumbent president transfer power to the president of the Senate if they run for reelection.
- Finally, they want a negotiation involving all political parties to resolve these issues before 16 November.
Demands unlikely to be met
- The coalition aims to continue these protests until its demands are met.
- Secondly, it’s unlikely that the current government, electoral commission and constitutional court will enter into negotiations regarding their reshuffle or dissolution.
- My concern is that the only likely situation for the Collectif’s demands be met would be another severe political crisis.
Free and fair election?
- There are concerns that the tensions between the two camps could escalate.
- I believe that one thing is certain: the current government, electoral commission and high court are, to an extent, supporting their former boss, Rajoelina.
- Another critical question is whether this election will be considered “free and fair” and the results accepted by all.
Adrien Ratsimbaharison does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.