Military Announces Takeover as Madagascar Votes on New Constitution

17 November 2010

Madagascans line up to cast their votes in a referendum in Antananarivo, 17 Nov 2010

Despite the conflict within the military ranks, voting on Madagascar's new constitution was calm.

About 18,000 polling booths across Madagascar opened Wednesday at dawn to allow the island nation's 7 million registered voters to vote 'yes' or 'no' on the draft charter.

President Andry Rajoelina cast his vote in Antananarivo and urged his countrymen to do the same.

He said taking responsibility is important when it comes to the fact that citizens can express their opinions through the referendum, because it is really the opinion of the people that is sought, for the future of the country. Rajoelina said it is very important to participate.

Later, he told reporters he would not step down in defiance of military threats.

Supporters hoped the new constitution would bring political stability, and restore donor and investor support, following the military-backed coup nearly two years ago. That brought Mr. Rajoelina to power and ousted then-President Marc Ravalomanana.

Three main opposition parties, led by Mr. Ravalomanana and two other former Malagasy presidents, rejected the referendum and called for a boycott.

A resident of Antananarivo, Aha Randriamahefa, said many people are tired of the crisis and quarreling among politicians. He said he voted because he would like to see changes in governance. If he had not voted there would be no change. There are politicians who are still bickering, but he said voting is not a competition between individuals, rather a way to find a solution.