Two French Nationals Charged for Madagascar President Assassination Attempt
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After nearly two weeks have gone by since the attempted assassination of the President of Madagascar Andry Rajoelina, Madagascar's Judiciary accuses two French nationals, among others.
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Malagasy President Andry Rajoelina
Two French nationals (Philippe F. and Paul R.) arrested on July 22nd were charged, and joined the list of those accused in the conspiracy to assassinate the President of Madagascar Andry Rajoelina (47 y.o).
They appeared before a judge on Wednesday, their lawyers announced on Thursday. The judge officially filed charges against them, holding them in a high-security facility after a two-week-long arrest.
"We don't know the reason for this decision," Philippe F's lawyer, Etienne de Villepin said. The presiding judge "is an honest and independent person," said the Franco-Malagasy lawyer of Paul R, Willy Razafinjatovo.
He added that the two French suspects had been charged with endangering the security of the state by conspiring to kill the president, and associating with criminals.
"We hope that the investigation will continue in this way, without pressure from outside the court," the lawyer told reporters, asking that the trial be televised.
Rajoelina first seized power from Marc Ravalomanana in March 2009, backed by the military, winning the last elections in 2018 against his predecessor.
