Madagascar rift

This item appears on page 21 of the April 2009 issue.

The State department has alerted travelers of safety and security concerns in Madagascar due to demonstrations stemming from a political rift between supporters of the mayor of the capital city of Antananarivo and the government of Madagascar.

In January, Madagascar was experiencing escalating political demonstrations, including violent clashes between government forces and supporters of the Antananarivo mayor plus looting and burning of residences and businesses.