President Andry Rajoelina’s re-election in Madagascar has been officially affirmed by the Constitutional Court following a contentious vote held two weeks ago.
Rajoelina, securing 59% of the votes, has clinched a third term despite a low 46% voter turnout and widespread boycotts by most opposition parties. The court, led by Florent Rakotoarisoa, dismissed opposition complaints regarding the credibility of the election.
In confirming Rajoelina’s victory, Rakotoarisoa declared, “Andry Rajoelina is elected as the president of the Republic of Madagascar.”
Despite concerns about the election’s legitimacy, ten out of 13 contenders withdrew from the race, advising their supporters not to participate.
Efforts to annul Rajoelina’s candidacy were rejected by the court, and his main rivals, Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko and former President Marc Ravalomanana, secured 14% and 12% of the votes, respectively.
The election was marred by protests and confrontations, with the opposition alleging that Rajoelina benefited from unfair electoral conditions.
