Stories about Malagasy from January, 2009
Madagascar: The mayor proclaims himself president
A dispute between the president of Madagascar, Marc Ravalomanan, and the mayor of the capital, Andry Rajoelina, thrust Malagasy citizens into violent rioting and looting last week, and has now escalated into a power struggle for the presidency itself.
Madagascar: “Unmitigated Disaster”
After two days of upheaval that resulted in an estimated death toll at 80 nationally, and the looting of dozens of stores, a day of relative calm greeted a stunned nation.
Madagascar: “History repeats itself…as a farce” in recent unrest
On blogs and forums, reflections on the sources of the current unrest and the history of Madagascar's turbulent democracy.
Madagascar's resourceful kids
This week, two videos from Madagascar show us how children make do with their situation and rise above it using ingenuity, creativity and a bit of daring. First is Toky, who makes tin cars out of waste materials, and the other is the Green Boy, a kid who makes a living in the streets not by begging, but by showing off his acrobatic skills.
Madagascar: More reports President Ravalomanana has fled
Several bloggers and a Malgasy media website report that President Ravalomanana has fled the country. Still others say the rumors of Ravalomanana's departure are false.
Madagascar: Devastating tropical storm makes way for a political one
A few days after passing Madagascar, the official toll from the damages caused by Cyclone Fanele have finally come in. President Ravalomanana president flew to one of the affected areas to assess the extent of the devastation. Cyclone citizen media initiative While the BGNRC (department of risk and disaster management)...
Madagascar: Massive Political Meeting as Tension Arises
Two bloggers report photos and proceedings of political meeting in Antananarivo as tension between mayor Andry Rajoelina and current president Marc Ravalomanana arises over the closing of a national TV station (mg). Avylavitra posted photos of attendance at the meeting and Jentilisa wrote a comprehensive timeline of the events (mg).
Madagascar: More Prison Break: Arson in Ambalatavoahangy (Toamasina)
After a series of prison breaks around Madagascar last week, Jentilisa reports that another prison near Toamasina ( East coast of Madagascar) was set on fire today ( Jan 13th) (mg). Eyewitnesses reported heavy smoke and 5 gun shots. The causes of the fire or the gun shots are still...
Madagascar: Series of “Prison Breaks” as Life Imitates Television
In Madagascar, 40 inmates are still at large after successful escape attempts from three prisons around the country, all within in 48 hours.