Over 30 shot dead by presidential commandos in Madagascar

Source: CCTV.com | 02-08-2009 09:21

In Madagascar, more than 30 anti-government demonstrators were shot dead on Saturday by foreign commandos guarding the presidential palace in the capital, Antananarivo.

Demonstrators gather at central Antananarivo to support opposition leader Andry Rajoelina Feb. 7, 2009. Grand  rally was held here as Rajoelina earlier on the day  proclaimed president of Madagascar. (Xinhua photo)

The killings took place after opposition leader Andry Rajoelina led the demonstrators to the palace to take power from the president. Earlier, Rajoelina proclaimed himself president of Madagascar and announced the set-up of a transitional government.

Reports say the military force in Antananarivo were also fighting foreign troops around the presidential palace.

Editor:Yang Jie