The European Union expresses its serious concerns about the political climate which has prevailed for several weeks, marked by high tensions and numerous violence occurring during demonstrations.
EU High Representative, Josep Borell in a statement on Saturday called on all political and social forces to act peacefully, in a spirit of inclusive and constructive dialogue in order to strengthen confidence in the electoral cycle.
It was reported that Madagascar’s Presidential Election, originally scheduled for November 9, has been postponed by a week due to an injury sustained during an opposition demonstration.
Adding that the High Constitutional Court ordered the postponement to November 16, 2023 while the second round of voting has been maintained for December 20, but the electoral campaign has been extended by a week.
The election, which includes incumbent President Andry Rajoelina, has been in the making for several weeks over deteriorating political climate, the opposition, known as the “Collective of Eleven,” has called for daily demonstrations.
The EU reiterated its call on the authorities to guarantee equal opportunities for all candidates in the election and underlines the importance of respecting the freedoms of movement, expression, association and assembly as well as the protection of private life.
According to the Union, “the institutions responsible for elections must do everything possible to organize a transparent and credible electoral process, the results of which will reflect the free expression of the Malagasy people”.