Return to constitutional order: the little precision from Jean Marc Chataigner

France’s ambassador in Antananarivo is indeed the only one to take over the American monologue and to make the headlines into Madagascan press. Jean Marc Chataigner gave a serious indication on France’s position, which is finally not as radical as pretended by some: « I have faith in the restoration of constitutional order « , did he say shortly before specifying  » a new constitutional order « . 

France reinforces therefore its position supposedly made uncomfortable by attempts to boost a regime that it cannot recognize. The popular movement led by Andry Rajoelina has been concluded by a military Coup obviously distanced by president Sarkozy who doesn’t regret the reversing of president Ravalomanana for so much. The only worry of the French president had been the physical security of his Madagascan counterpart. 

Jean Marc Chataigner appears optimistic about the outcome of the Madagascan crisis and rather confident in the future. « I have faith in the Madagascan national reconciliation, which includes all Madagascans » he said. He recommends consultations that don’t exclude anybody to define the future of the country. He thereupon made France’s position clear about an inclusive and concerted transition charter. « I have faith in the restoration of democracy « , he added. 

France’s ambassador pronounced at the defence ministry his first official statement which in is technically not official since he declared to have come as friend of both decorated officers. The general Bruno Bourdoncle de Saint Salvy, French head of the Armed services in the south Indian ocean zone (FAZSOI), and colonel Franck Reigner, French embassy’s defence advisor, have been decorated knights of the Madagascan national order. 

The prudent statement from Jean Marc Chataigner recalls that, even though he already works as France’s ambassador, he hadn’t yet presented his credence letter to the Madagascan chief of state. The official non recognition of Andry Rajoelina to whom he though paid a courtesy visit at his very arrival remains a hurdle. Ambassador Chataigner must wait for the restoration of constitutional order, either new or no, to be officially ambassador.