Balanced News: Polls open in Madagascar presidential election hit by boycott

Polls have opened in Madagascar’s presidential election, but the majority of opposition candidates are boycotting the vote due to concerns about its integrity. President Andry Rajoelina, who is seeking re-election, has expressed confidence in his victory. The country has been marred by political crises since gaining independence from France in 1960. The opposition has led frequent unauthorized protests marches in the capital, and 10 of the 13 candidates on the ballot have called on voters to shun the elections, describing it as an “institutional coup” in favor of the incumbent. A strong turnout will be crucial for Rajoelina, as less than 55% of registered voters participated in the last elections in 2018.