Madagascar’s incumbent President Andry Rajoelina has won a third term, following a disputed election boycotted by the opposition and its supporters.
He won 59% of the vote to defeat his two closest rivals, ousted ex-President Marc Ravalomanana and Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko.
The election recorded a voter turnout of 46%, considered to be the lowest in the island country’s history. The low turnout followed calls for poll boycott by 10 presidential contenders.
They also withdrew their candidacies over concerns about the credibility of the election and denounced President Rajoelina’s bid for a third term and the validity of his candidacy, given his dual French nationality.
The constitutional court dismissed their appeals to annul Mr Rajoelina’s candidacy. He also dismissed the accusations and called them a political tactic.
Despite their withdrawal, the candidates’ names stayed on the ballot.
Mr Randriana soloniaiko gained 14% of the vote and Mr Ravalomanana 12%.
