June 26: How French African politics hit their own lines

Already on Monday, President Wade who has hosted the preceding discussions in Dakar, indicated via BBC that he felt that the decision not to acknowledge Marc Ravalomanana could lead to an “eruption of violence”.
He also added: “Who are we to impose an election on the Malagasy people when they do not wish to hold one”?

Today, it was the International Community’s turn, lead by the United States, to show the world that it intends to give President Ravalomanana a fighting chance at proving himself.
As a matter of fact, during the official Independence Day ceremony, the representatives of the most important financial backers displayed a remarkable show of force.
Japan, Great Britain, Germany, the European Union, the World Bank, and many more were present.
France’s glaring absence did not go unnoticed.

As if to underline this major distinction, President Chirac today declared his continued support for those OAU initiatives which the Malagasy people so vehemently condemn.
He persists on calling for a dialog with Ratsiraka, right at the time when the former President’s supporters perpetrate the most violent terrorist acts to-date.
Can France really think that she can remain credible under these circumstances?

How will France save face?
We may have the answer following the G8 summit when Presidents Chirac, Bush and Wade are scheduled to meet.

In any event, Madagascar can breathe a sigh of relief for now as she navigates her way to true democracy, through this difficult transition period.
One can only hope that the International Community’s firmer stand will help placate the genocidal zeal of Ratsiraka’s supporters.

Translated by Jeanne Françoise Razanamiadana