UN welcomes Madagascar deal
2009-08-11 08:38
New York - Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Monday welcomed the power-sharing deal that Madagascar's bitter political rivals agreed to and urged them to quickly agree to build a transitional government.
The United Nations is ready to support the implementation of the agreements signed on Sunday, along with the African Union, southern African nations and other regional and international organisations, UN deputy spokesperson Marie Okabe said.
The Indian Ocean Island has become increasingly isolated since Andry Rajoelina claimed the presidency last March in a widely denounced coup that sent Marc Ravalomanana into exile.
After four days of talks mediated by former Mozambican President Joaquim Chissano, the two sides agreed that a transitional government will be established for 15 months, leading to fresh elections. Details of how the parties will share power are still being worked out, but the new administration is expected to be in place by September.
Ravalomanana was granted amnesty for any charges that might arise from his time in office. Two other former presidents - Didier Ratsiraka and Albert Zaphy - were also party to the agreement and will also be given amnesty and be made senators for life.
"The secretary-general welcomes the signing in Maputo yesterday of agreements providing a framework for resolving the political crisis in Madagascar," Okabe said.
"He congratulates the four leaders - Andry Rajoelina, Marc Ravalomanana, Didier Ratsiraka and Albert Zaphy - for committing to a peaceful transition under a government of national unity," she said. "He urges them to quickly agree on its composition and on the establishment of the institutions of the transition leading to credible elections and the restoration of democracy and the rule of law in Madagascar."
- AP