Madagascar's deposed president Marc Ravalomanana holds his air tickets as he speaks during a news conference in Johannesburg February 17, 2011. Ravalomanana will return to his country on Saturday in a move likely to stoke tensions in a two-year leadership row on the Indian Ocean Island. Ravalomanana made the announcement in South Africa on Thursday, where he has lived in exile since 2009 when President Andy Rajoelina, backed by the military, seized power in Madagascar. REUTERS/Mike Hutchings (SOUTH AFRICA - Tags: POLITICS IMAGES OF THE DAY)
The President of Madagascar’s Senate, General Richard Ravalomanana, announced on Wednesday that he has immediately revoked the appointment of Indian national Singh Khushwinder, who is currently at the centre of controversy linked to the “Boeing 777-200 ER affair.”
The declaration was made during a press briefing held in Anosy.
Ravalomanana clarified that Khushwinder was never an official advisor but had been involved with his office in a voluntary capacity. “I had no knowledge of these developments; I was on an overseas mission,” Ravalomanana stated.
“I only learned about the situation on Monday. As soon as I was informed, I made the decision to remove him.”
He was emphatic in distancing himself from any wrongdoing, affirming that he does not associate with individuals involved in illicit activities. He further stressed that Khushwinder’s involvement had no financial or strategic advantage for himself or his office.
“My objective has always been parliamentary diplomacy aimed at contributing to Madagascar’s development,” he explained.
Political exploitation and opposition reaction
Ravalomanana also accused opposition parties of exploiting the current situation to stir unrest and sabotage the upcoming 45th SADC Summit scheduled to be hosted in Madagascar.
According to him, these political actors are focused more on power struggles than national interest. “Everything happening in this country is being politicised—whether it’s issues with Jirama, the University, or the poisoning incidents in Ambohimalaza,” he remarked.
He reiterated that hosting the SADC summit is of national importance and should be a point of pride for all Malagasy citizens, not just the government. “This event is significant for both our country and our people,” Ravalomanana concluded.
The unfolding scandal comes at a sensitive time for Madagascar, as it prepares to welcome high-level regional delegations amid internal political tension.
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