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Madagascar Government Accuses Ex-President of Unrest


Army soldiers take cover behind their vehicles during a shootout between rival Madagascan security forces in the streets of the capital Antananarivo, 20 May 2010
Army soldiers take cover behind their vehicles during a shootout between rival Madagascan security forces in the streets of the capital Antananarivo, 20 May 2010

Madagascar's government is accusing former President Marc Ravalomanana of being behind an attempted mutiny this week.

In a statement Friday, the office of President Andry Rajoelina said the former president was trying to create tensions within the armed forces.

On Thursday, security forces battled with a dissident group of military police. Military officials say at least two soldiers were killed and several civilians wounded in the violence in the capital, Antananarivo.

The mutineers were said to be angry at alleged abuses by their superiors.

Madagascar has been tense since early 2009, when Mr. Rajoelina ousted former President Ravalomanana with the support of the military.

The African Union has refused to recognize Mr. Rajoelina as president, and efforts to install a power-sharing government have failed.

Mr. Rajoelina has set presidential elections for November. He said earlier this month that he would not run, so the political transition could end in what he called "a neutral manner."

Some information for this report provide by AP and Reuters.

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