The diplomatic ballet before Pretoria, France must reassure Rajoelina

The ambassador of France in Antananarivo moderated the tone long before the Pretoria stage. Jean-Marc Châtaigner conceded that some ultimate negotiations might be likely so that both concerned sides, namely Marc Ravalomanana, the ousted president, and Andry Rajoelina, the putsch maker, come up to a final political agreement. Both sides have so far found some common grounds over roadmap’s drafts. The so significant alterations to its contents are now causes for as so significant uncertainties. The ambassador refused to reveal the points to be discussed, and the press refrained from allegations.  

In Pretoria, details are to be addressed. Ambassador Châtaigner expects the deal to be signed during the meeting between Marc Ravalomanana and Andry Rajoelina. Negotiations would take place between both men up to the signature of an official paper sealing the deal. The negotiations would thereafter be extended to the two other mobilities. The Ratsiraka and Zafy sides will be asked to contribute to the implementation of the incoming Pretoria agreements. They would equally be involved in power sharing, as well as within the national unity government.  

Jean-Marc Châtaigner rated the erection of a follow up process as paramount to the signed agreements. The French diplomat’s scepticism regarding the malagasy politicians’ loyalty is actually founded. « we must make sure that signed agreements are fully implemented », insised Jean-Marc Châtaigner.    

France and South Africa are keeping away from hurting the SADC and the African Union. Mediator Joaquim Chissano is part of the negotiation process in Pretoria. However, the Mozambican former president is likely to face opposition when addressing the possible alterations to the Maputo and Addis Ababa agreements. Joaquim Chissano would only be implied in the talks’ second part, once a deal would be signed between Ravalomanana and Rajoelina. South Africa’s embassy considers Mr. Chissano as a simple observer, reminding that the Pretoria round will be presided by the south-African state chief, Jacob Zuma. 

Has the french- South-African duet successfully reassured Andry Rajoelina about the » Chissano threat. »?  « We won’t go to South Africa unless it is made clear that we’re going to sign a done deal », he declared earlier. The young chief of the dictating authority will have to face up to Marc Ravalomanana in head to head talks anyway. And then, the TGV will not be able to stand by France’s  » protection ».