Opposition-led forces storm palace in Madagascan capital

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Source: CCTV.com | 03-17-2009 09:36

Soldiers have broken into and taken over an unoccupied presidential palace in the Madagascan capital, Antananarivo.

Opposition leader Andry Rajoelina had called on the army to arrest the president. And, Monday's move on the palace was considered as a symbolic show of force.

Soldiers take aim after two tanks backed by troops forced their way into a presidential palace in Antananarivo  March 16, 2009. Tanks successfully forced their way into  the presidential palace in the centre of Madagascar's  capital on Monday, but the president was not in the  building.REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko (MADAGASCAR POLITICS CONFLICT)

In recent days, President Marc Ravalomanana has been in another palace in the capital. Civilian supporters and presidential guards have been protecting him. He is accused of misspending public funds and undermining democracy.

Rajoelina declared himself president of a transitional government over the weekend. He promised new presidential elections within two years. The president charges that Rajoelina is seeking power by unconstitutional means. He has said he would not surrender power.

Editor:Zhang Yun