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Madagascar

Madagascar's leader says he's still in control despite coup attempt

Madagascar’s leader has insisted he remains in control of the country, and is promising a quick crackdown on a group of soldiers who are still claiming they’ve taken control. Earlier General Noel Rakotonandrasana, declared that government institutions had been suspended and a military council was in charge.

Andry Rajoelina
Andry Rajoelina Reuters
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"From now on all institutions are suspended and a military committee is going to run the country," said Rakotonandrasana, surrounded by around 20 soldiers at an army base near Antananarivo airport.

But leader Andry Rajoelina vowed a swift crackdown, saying "the government will assume its responsibilities and consequently take action."

"I have received death threats from (some) soldiers if I don't resign. I am not afraid. God is protecting me," added Rajoelina, who appeared calm as he spoke at a polling station near his home in the north of the capital.

Earlier Wednesday police fired teargas to disperse hundreds of anti-government protesters who blocked roads near the airport on the edge of the capital. The demonstrators had wanted to stop loyal troops from reaching the mutineers.

The coup attempt came as Madagascar voted on a new government charter, designed to break the country’s political limbo.
 

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