Lova Rakotomalala · March, 2009

Latest posts by Lova Rakotomalala from March, 2009

Madagascar: Roots of the Turmoil

  25 March 2009

Stephen Ellis, co-author (with Solofo Randrianja) of Madagascar: A Short History, explains that Ravalomanana's removal can be attributed to two main factors: his use of presidential power to further business interests and his alienation of the provincial political class and the armed forces.

Madagascar: Fear of More Strife After President's Resignation

  19 March 2009

The power struggle that has plagued Madagascar since January may have come to an end. Yesterday, after attempts by Andry Rajoelina supporters to remove President Marc Ravalomanana from office, the army, which has now sided with Rajoelina, took control of the presidential palace in Ambotsirohatra. Bloggers were divided between joy over Ravalomanana's exit and anxiety over what Rajoelina's leadership will bring.

Madagascar: A Changing of the Guard?

  16 March 2009

The Madagascar crisis may have reached a major turning point: the beginning of the end of the President Marc Ravalomanana's regime. While there is still confusion about who is currently in charge, the army seems to have chosen to stand with former mayor Andry Rajoelina. The prime minister's office, as well as the national TV, are now under Rajoelina's control. Twitterers in Madagascar described events as they unfolded.

Madagascar: “I feel like in a war movie”

  4 March 2009

The political crisis in Madagascar, unfolding since late January, took yet another turn today with the sound of gun shots and tear gas, as police and protestors clashed all over Antananarivo, the capital city. Eyewitnesses describe the scene on Facebook and Twitter.

Lova Rakotomalala's space

Jeslyn Lemke, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Multimedia Journalism
Communication Department