Madagascar (MNN) ― According to sources within Madagascar, staged sit-ins are the latest in a series of protests that have taken place inside the country for nearly two months. Sources say thousands of protestors were blocked by police from entering government offices.
In January, former mayor Andry Rajoelina called for demonstrations following the closure of his TV network, "Viva." The government shut "Viva" down after an interview with former president Didier Ratsiraka was broadcast on the station. Ratsiraka, who ruled Madagascar for a quarter of a century, retreated to France in 2002 after a drawn-out political battle with current president, Ravalomanana. Rajoelina ran against Ravalomanana in 2007 as an independent candidate and has been increasingly outspoken against the president's policies.
"There is apparently a deep vein of popular discontent with the government and President Ravalomanana in particular," wrote Dudley Pate, Southern regional leader for Africa Inland Mission.
The turmoil has claimed almost 100 lives, including those of protestors shot by presidential guards earlier this month.
"Pray for peace and justice to prevail in this poverty-stricken nationwhich can ill afford this instability and the widespread destruction that is taking place," writes Pate. "Pray for evil to be restrained."
Sit-ins are expected to continue. Pray for peace in Madagascar and for the turmoil to end. AIM personnel are closely monitoring the situation and have been reminded of contingency plans to ensure their safety throughout this crisis. Pray for AIM missionaries in Madagascar.
