Madagascar Bans Public Protests Ahead Of Elections

Madagascar’s government has recently imposed a ban on public protests, citing the need to maintain public order ahead of the presidential election in November. The ban has been met with criticism from opponents of the government who believe it is an attempt to stifle dissent. The move comes after the arrest of Lola Rasoamaharo, who has been charged with defamation and extortion.

According to reports, the minister of interior announced on state TV that no political protests would be allowed in public, but they could be held in an enclosed place. Critics of the government have described the move as a recent crackdown on dissent in the island nation of 29 million people. President Andry Rajoelina is expected to seek re-election, and opponents believe that the ban on public protests is an attempt to silence opposition voices.