Madagascar
Malagasy police forces on saturday July 9th, dispersed hundreds of opposition activists marching in the capital Antananarivo.
According to authorities the protesters gathered at the TIM of former President Marc Ravalomanana, and rushed to a stadium in the city where they wanted to celebrate the 15th anniversary of their movement.
The government had banned the gathering and deployed large numbers of police, and soldiers in front of the stadium to block access.
One of the TIM party’s advisor, Viviane Ravonomanana, said “Normally, people should be allowed to express themselves, to celebrate. I don’t understand the problem, I do not understand the reasons for this ban, we are not looking to overthrow the regime. It was a celebration of the TIM party’s last 15 years. “
Ravalomanana was overthrown in 2002 by Mayor Andry Rajoelina, who plunged the Island into a long period of instability.
The opposition accuses the head of state of having pressed the justice for the benefit of one of his close advisers, incarcerated for embezzlement of funds.
The political climate has tightened over the last few weeks on the Big Island.
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