The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has commended Madagascar for holding what he termed as a “peaceful and orderly” voting process.
Madagascar conducted its presidential election on November 7 but none of the 36 candidates obtained an outright majority, leading to a run-off vote between Marc Ravalomanana and Andry Rajoelina.
Rajoelina was earlier this month declared the winner of the vote, earning him a second stint at the presidency.
In a statement on Tuesday, Guterres said “the Independent Electoral Commission (CENI) and the High Constitutional Court (HCC), civil society and religious leaders, as well as the leadership of the Government”, should be “commended for being part of this historic milestone.”
He went on to congratulate Rajoelina for his win.
“The Secretary-General notes the announcement of the final results…and congratulates President-elect Andry Rajoelina,” said the statement. “He also commends all stakeholders for the peaceful and orderly conclusion of the presidential election.”
The statement said the UN chief will continue to follow developments in the island through his Special Adviser, Mr. Abdoulaye Bathily, with the support of the United Nations Country Team.
