Madagascar

Deposed president names new PM from exile

Article published on the 2009-04-17 Latest update 2009-04-17 14:46 TU

Marc Ravaolamanana
( Photo: Reuters )

Madagascar's ousted President Marc Ravalomanana named Manandafy Rakotonirina Prime Minister Thursday in a move to reaffirm his status as the country's legitimate leader.

Ravalomanana, who was forced out of office last month by the army-backed opposition leader Andry Rajoelina, made the announcement by phone from Swaziland to some 15,000 supporters gathered for a rally in Antananarivo.

"I have appointed Mr Manandafy Rakotonirina as Prime Minister. He is the legal Prime Minister," he said.

"We hope... that he will be able to fulfill his duties for the return of peace for the nation and for the well being of Madagascans."

70-year old Rakotonirina was already a veteran politician when the young Rajoelina was born. A former rival of Ravalomanana’s, he has lost presidential elections three times.

Ravalomanana says that he was removed from office by a coup and has been rallying international backing against Rajoelina, who was sworn in as the Indian Ocean island's transitional leader in March.

Talks to end the country's months-old political crisis have floundered with the latest bid under the aegis of the African Union and the United Nations suffering a setback and being adjourned last week after Ravalomanana's camp walked out.