Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina Leads in Vote Count Amid Election Boycott and Vote-Buying Claims

Opposition candidates boycotted the election citing unfair conditions, while supporters of Rajoelina's party claimed they were promised money for their votes.

• Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina is on course for reelection, with 60% of the votes after 68% of polling stations declared their results.
• The election was boycotted by most opposition candidates, including former President Marc Ravalomanana, who claimed conditions for a fair vote hadn’t been met.
• Supporters of Rajoelina's party claimed they had been promised money in return for backing him, with some stating they were promised about $75 for voting for Rajoelina.
• The TGV party has denied promising any money to its supporters, but said the membership cards will give people preferential treatment for future government handouts.
• The leadup to the election was marked by protests against Rajoelina, with security forces firing tear gas at demonstrators and some polling stations being torched.

3 Articles

Fox News Washington Post Associated Press