Could Ratsiraka still spoil things, even from exile?

The Malagasy conflict settles down little by little. The press is buzzing over Ratsiraka’s departure for Paris, via the Seychelles.

As far as Midi Madagascar is concerned, there is absolutely no doubt that Ratsiraka is on the run. Midi does not even hesitate to proclaim in “Vision” that “there are no more roadblocks standing in Ravalomanana’s way, and little by little life begins again.” In another article, Midi wonders whether this means “a second exile in Paris for Ratsiraka.” Obviously, Ratsiraka has not toned down his speeches one iota, accusing Ravalomanana of being a neo-nazi, and demanding from him a rematch or a referendum. Midi thinks that “Ravalomanana’s example could spread all over Africa,” where some concerned Heads of State have been hostile toward Ravalomanana. Midi announces that economically, “optimism is in order” concerning the exchange rates, and where the Malagasy Franc stands after a six month long crisis.

Madagascar Tribune warns of Ratsiraka’s capability to spoil things, even from exile. With full knowledge of the facts, this daily publication contends that “Ratsiraka will not miss any chance to plot against Ravalomanana’s power, and to poison the relationship between Madagascar and France. Ratsiraka will dedicate himself entirely to destabilizing Ravalomanana’s government, and to recapturing power.”

Express de Madagascar seems to share this view. Using Ratsiraka’s own words, upon his arrival in Paris, the daily publication reports that, essentially, “Didier Ratsiraka does not admit defeat. Could this be a last ditch effort from a former president who was forced to leave a country where he no longer feels welcome, to prevent a blood bath?”

Translated by J. F. Razanamiadana