Issue and Opponent: After gaining independence from France in 1960, Madagascar experienced a one-party rule and political violence. This period brought Ratsiraka to power who had control over the country from 1975-2002. He experienced major opposition during his presidency, specifically over issues of election fraud. Protests erupted at his inauguration in 1989 and again in 1991, both resulting in deaths. In the 2001 election, the mayor of Antananarivo, Ravolomanana, competed with Ratsiraka for the presidency. No one won a clear majority, so a second round of voting was set up for March of 2002. Ravolomanana set up demonstrations as they claimed the results of the first election were falsified and did not want a second vote.
Dilemma Action: Ravolomanana and his supporters set up general strikes and demonstrations throughout Antananarivo. International flights were suspended, and businesses, shops, and banks were closed. Protestors filled the street, but Ratsiraka refused a recount. The protests grew each day, and Ratsiraka enacted a marshal law and appointed a military governor. Protestors defied the curfew and “state of emergency” and continued to fill the streets. Outdoor “balls” spread throughout the capital, bringing thousands of dancers onto the streets.
Outcomes: After several weeks of pro-Ravolomanana demonstrations and dancing in the street, Ratsiraka supporters confronted the Ravolomanana supporters, leading to violence on both sides. Ultimately, Ravolomanana and Ratsiraka signed a peace deal brokered by the Senegal president. This deal would allow a recount and recognize Ratsiraka as interim president. Neither kept their word, and violence continued until the Constitutional Court announced Ravolomanana won the presidency, and Ratsiraka fled to Seychelles. Ravolomanana ruled until 2009 when he resigned in the face of political opposition.