Madagascar
Former president of Madagascar, Marc Ravalomanana, has confirmed his intention to run for president in 2018.
Analysts said the announcement of his candidature was a bit premature as it comes two years before the presidential election.
His close aides said this will enable him prepare well for the election.
The announcement of the candidature comes at a time when there are reports about plans to introduce age limits to eliminate some candidates.
Ravalomanana was overthrown in 2009 and went on exile in South Africa.
His departure drew condemnation from the international community and a reduction of financial support as the new government was considered unconstitutional.
He was arrested shortly after his return and later released before joining his former party while his wife got elected as Mayor of the capital, Antananarivo.
AFP
02:47
Unraveling the political threads: Inside South Africa's Complex Election Landscape
Go to video
Togo bans protests against arrest of opposition activists, constitutional reform
01:10
New poll finds support for South Africa's ruling ANC is plunging
00:56
South Sudan president presses on holding elections as scheduled
01:10
Cyclone Gamane hits Madagascar, kills at least 11, displaces thousands
00:45
Cameroon: Govt deems two opposition groups 'illegal', issues warning ahead 2025 election