Madagascar Military Negotiates with Mutineers; Country Awaits Referendum Results
18 November 2010
Madagascar's leader Andry Rajoelina speaks to the press after casting his vote at a local polling station in Antananarivo, 17 Nov 2010
The streets of Antananarivo were calm and stores and businesses opened as usual one day after a group of military officers announced they were suspending the transitional government of Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina.
Rebel spokesman Colonel Charles Andrianasoavina called for all the armed forces to support the overthrow. He said the military council was seizing power because of the political situation, which has still not been resolved after 18 months.
Prime Minister Camille Vital said loyalist officers were talking to the mutineers, whom he said numbered no more than 20. But he said his government would take a tougher stance if the talks failed.
The mutiny took place as voters decided in a referendum whether to adopt a new constitution. Supporters hoped the new charter would end a political crisis provoked by a military-backed coup last year that brought Rajoelina to power.
Legal expert Sohandra Rebenarivo said the main purpose of the proposed charter is to consolidate Mr. Rajoelina's power.
"Voting yes on this constitution was voting yes for the transition government," said Rebenarivo. "And they are legitimized as the government in power until such time as they decide to hold legislative and presidential elections. And there is no time limit for them to do that."
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