Madagascar’s political factions discuss parliamentary vote in 3 months, then presidential poll

Madagascar factions discussing poll in 3 months

PRETORIA, South Africa — Madagascar’s rival political factions are discussing a deal hammered out by international negotiators that calls for new elections on the Indian Ocean island nation.

Andry Rajoelina accused the other three former heads of state of stalling the talks in South Africa. He said Thursday he had not come to negotiate, particularly over the issue of amnesty for deaths that occurred in the lead-up to his seizure of power.

Rajoelina ousted elected President Marc Ravalomanana in March 2009 with the military’s backing after a campaign of street protests. But Rajoelina failed to meet a deadline for submitting to agreements sponsored by international mediators.

The deal being discussed would set up a power-sharing government that would hold parliamentary elections within three months, followed by a presidential vote.