Madagascar political crisis

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Source: CCTV.com | 02-01-2009 13:56

Madagascar's president said on Saturday that he is still in charge of the island's government hours after an opposition leader told thousands of anti-government protesters he had taken over.

Madagascar President Marc Ravalomanana speaks during a  press conference at the Presidential Palace in  Antananarivo, Madagascar. Madagascar's opposition leader  Andry Rajoelina proclaimed himself head of the island's  affairs during a rally Saturday, escalating a battle  against the president that has claimed 68 lives. (AFP/Richard Bouhet)

The mayor of the country's capital has waged a campaign of strikes and public rallies against the government accusing them of abusing state powers and threatening democracy.

The political crisis will likely hurt the Indian Ocean island's image as a safe destination for foreign investment and tourists.

Editor:Zhang Yun