The revelation of Madagascar’s President, Andry Rajoelina, holding dual French nationality has sparked a significant uproar on the Indian Ocean island. The law stipulates that acquiring foreign citizenship results in the automatic loss of Malagasy nationality.
Leaked documents exposing Rajoelina’s naturalization by decree in November 2014, authorized by then French Prime Minister Manuel Valls, have intensified concerns about the President’s transparency. With a copy of the decree, co-signed by the interior minister and published in the Official Journal, circulating online, calls for clarification have intensified.
Hajo Andrianainarivelo, the leader of the opposition Malagasy Miara Miainga party, invoked Article 46 of Madagascar’s constitution, emphasizing that “the functions of a president of the republic can only fall to a citizen of Malagasy nationality.” The party urges Rajoelina to address the issue, which they perceive as an offense to the sovereignty of the Malagasy people who feel betrayed.
Meanwhile, Rivo Rakotovao, the head of the HVM party, vehemently denounced what he called “treason” and a “moral fault” committed by the President. Rakotovao questions Rajoelina’s credibility to defend Madagascar, pointing out that he lied and pledged allegiance to another country by becoming French.
Responding to the accusations, Rajoelina’s chief of staff, Romy Voos Andrianarisoa, dismissed the leaked documents as an “undoubted political move.” Andrianarisoa emphasized Rajoelina’s Malagasy heritage, being born to Malagasy parents. She argues that Rajoelina is Malagasy and that the French ancestry, through his great-grandfather, does not diminish his Malagasy identity. Andrianarisoa also contests the notion that acquiring foreign nationality immediately results in the loss of Malagasy nationality, stating that formal recognition by an authority is required.
Reports suggest that Rajoelina obtained French nationality in exchange for temporarily withdrawing from the country’s political crisis in 2013. The controversy surrounding Rajoelina’s dual nationality highlights concerns about transparency, sovereignty, and the President’s ability to uphold Madagascar’s interests.
In conclusion, the revelation of President Andry Rajoelina’s dual French nationality has stirred a significant controversy in Madagascar. The issue raises questions about transparency, loyalty, and the impact on national sovereignty. The President’s response and clarification will play a crucial role in addressing the concerns raised by the opposition and the Malagasy people.
