Madagascar Court Confirms Andry Rajoelina’s Election To The Presidency

Madagascar’s Constitutional Court has recently confirmed the re-election of President Andry Rajoelina from the Young Malagasies Determined political party, marking his third term in office. The court declared Rajoelina the winner with 59% of the votes cast.

Background of the Election

• The election took place amid significant challenges, including the withdrawal of ten out of thirteen presidential contenders.
• Despite their withdrawal, their names remained on the ballot, adding a layer of complexity to an already contentious electoral process.
• The opposition parties, critical of Rajoelina’s candidacy for a third term, urged their supporters to abstain from voting, contributing to a historically low voter turnout of 46%.

Court’s Verdict and Rajoelina’s Third Term

• Head of the Constitutional Court, Florent Rakotoarisoa, announced Rajoelina’s victory and affirmed that he is elected as the president for a third term.
• The court’s decision further fueled the controversy surrounding the election, especially given the concerns about electoral fairness and the opposition’s calls for annulment.

Opposition’s Claims and Court’s Rejections

• The opposition raised various concerns, including doubts about the validity of Rajoelina’s candidacy due to his dual French nationality.
• Additionally, allegations of unfair electoral conditions were made, accusing Rajoelina of creating an environment that favored his re-election.
• Despite these claims, the Constitutional Court rejected the opposition’s bid to annul Rajoelina’s candidacy, setting the stage for the controversial outcome.

Election Results and Political Landscape

• Rajoelina emerged victorious, defeating his two closest rivals, Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko and ex-President Marc Ravalomanana, who secured 14% and 12% of the votes, respectively.
• The competition was marked by weeks of demonstrations and clashes with the police, underscoring the intensity of the political climate in Madagascar.
• Rajoelina, however, dismissed the opposition’s allegations, insisting on the fairness of the electoral conditions.

Important Questions Related to Exams

Q. Who has been confirmed for a third term as President of Madagascar by the Constitutional Court?

A: President Andry Rajoelina has been confirmed for a third term as President of Madagascar by the Constitutional Court.

Q. Who were President Rajoelina’s two closest rivals, and what percentage of votes did they secure?

A: Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko and ex-President Marc Ravalomanana were the rivals, securing 14% and 12% of the votes, respectively.

Q. Who is the Head of the Constitutional Court?

A: Florent Rakotoarisoa is the Head of the Constitutional Court.

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