Madagascar rivals to meet in hope of ending island nation’s political crisis
By APTuesday, August 4, 2009
Madagascar political rivals to meet in Mozambique
MAPUTO, Mozambique — Two Madagascar politicians who have waged a deadly power struggle are meeting in an attempt to end the Indian Ocean island’s political crisis.
Ousted President Marc Ravalomanana and his rival Andry Rajoelina are to hold talks Wednesday in the Mozambican capital Maputo.
Rajoelina claimed the presidency in a widely-denounced March coup that sent Ravalomanana into exile in South Africa. Their power struggle has prompted months of violence in the impoverished country.
Former Mozambican president Joaquim Chissano was appointed to mediate in the dispute by the southern African regional bloc after talks broke down in June.
Tomaz Salomao, executive director of the southern African group, said Tuesday that the meeting could lead to resumed negotiations.
