President of Madagascar Survives Assassination Attempt

Madagascar Attorney General Berthine Razafiarivony announced on Thursday that two days ago, a plot to assassinate President Andry Rajoelina was foiled, and several "foreign and Malagasy" suspects were arrested as a result.

Two French nationals were among those arrested in the country, which has been long suffering from political turmoil. 

"According to the evidence in our possession, these individuals had devised a plan for the elimination and neutralization of a number of people including the head of state," the attorney general said, adding that the investigations are still ongoing.

The two suspects are reported to be retired military officers, according to the Taratra, a local news agency.

During the country's Independence Day celebrations on June 26, another assassination plot had been foiled by the gendarmerie, which targeted their boss, General Richard Ravalomanana, who is also the President's right-hand man.