Madagascar

Shots fired as opposition ministers try to take up posts

Article published on the 2009-02-16 Latest update 2009-02-16 16:44 TU

Soldiers separate supporters of Andry Rajoelina from those of President marc Ravalomanana in Antananarivo, 14 February 2009
(Photo: Reuters)

Madagascar’s opposition leader, former Antananarivo mayor Andry Rajoelina, called on thousands of supporters to stage sit-ins at government ministries Monday, and asked for his own self-appointed ministers to take office. Monja Roindefo, who Rajoelina appointed as the Prime Minister for the transition on 7 February, appointed two more people to Rajoelina’s rival government Monday, bringing the total to 12.

Police fired warning shots at a rally in the centre of the capital, called by Rajoelina. About ten thousand supporters gathered before heading to the ministries

The standoff outside government buildings lasted for several hours, Christian Lakoto Nirina of the Madagascar Tribune, told RFI.

"After four hours face-off between his supporters and security forces, [Rajoelina] said his operation was unsucessful," said Nirina, adding that President Marc Ravalomanana said Rajoelina would not be arrested if he cooperates with the government.

Earlier, Roindefo had said police would fire without warning to control the crowds.

"The police chief said there would be no warning shots,” he told the crowd. “This means a clear lack of legality in Madagascar as declared by a police chief who claims to be lawful.”

The Defence Minister, Vice-Admiral Many Ranaivoniarivo, said that security forces would be in place at all the ministries and public buildings.

At least 28 people were killed on 7 February when presidential guards fired on protesters who were heading for the presidential palace.

Rajoelina declared himself in charge of Madagascar’s affairs in late January, and has called for the impeachment of President Ravalomanana.

Negotiations between the government and Rajoelina and his supporters opened last week.