Member Country News
Liberal International President Lord Alderdice strongly condemned the arrest yesterday of Rakotonirina Manandafy, LI Vice President and leader of LI Full Member Party MFM, the Progressive Party of Madagascar. Mr. Manandafy, who was recently appointed prime minister by Madagascar’s ousted president Marc Ravalomanana, was arrested by armed soldiers loyal to Andry Rajoelina, the army-backed leader heading the regime that took power in the Indian Ocean nation on March 17.
At the Bureau Meeting of Liberal International in Vancouver, Canada on Friday, Lord Alderdice said: ‘Liberals from around the world were shocked and appalled by the violent arrest of Mr. Manandafy. We urge that he and other opposition leaders in Madagascar be immediately released without preconditions.
The recent resurgence of violence, disrespect for human rights and atmosphere of intimidation in Madagascar are very worrying. The events show that more than ever there is a need for dialogue and respect for key liberal values such as the basic freedoms of speech and assembly. The use of violence and bloodshed in resolving political disagreements will only further complicate reaching a peaceful solution.
The political movements of Madagascar must now return to engage in dialogue and resume negotiations to reach a compromise to return stability, democracy and the rule of law back to the country. The first International Contact Group meeting in Addis Ababa under joint African Union and United Nations auspices provides the best starting point to reach an acceptable compromise for all parties involved.’