The prefect of Mahajanga confirms the appointment of fokontany chiefs. This decision by the Ministry of Interior and Decentralization is now in effect across Madagascar.
The new decision to appoint fokontany chiefs is causing upheaval in Mahajanga. Protests have been observed in several city neighborhoods following the replacement of certain fokontany chiefs. Residents of Tsaramandroso Ambany and Mahavoky Avaratra fokontany, as well as those from Manjarisoa and Tanambao Sotema, demonstrated last Saturday and Monday against this designation. They are demanding elections rather than appointments. They displayed banners stating they do not need a new president and demanding respect for their choice.
"We don't need someone without a home. Organize an election and let it be transparent, because we will always choose our president. And why appoint the deputy instead of organizing a new election?" protested residents of Tsaramandroso Ambany and Mahavoky Avaratra last Saturday.
Prefect Nicolas Rabenandrasana responded Monday: "The appointment has already been subject to thorough consultation and a decision based on law no. 2026/797. The designations comply with regulations. Provisions of article 5 of decree no. 2009-890 of July 2, 2009 have been modified. The fokontany chief is now appointed from state agents residing in the fokontany concerned. The prefect and district chief, in certain jurisdictions, are authorized to appoint these first officials. We have received numerous complaints from the fokonolona against certain fokontany chiefs. Some can no longer perform their duties due to health issues. Others extort money when issuing administrative documents, while some officials have been in position for decades."
This administrative measure is presented as temporary, pending future national consultations. Instructions sent to prefects and district chiefs since April 9 provide for the establishment of fokontany committees led by a chief and deputy appointed by decree to ensure administrative continuity. No elections are planned for now.
Candidates must reside in the fokontany concerned and be literate to ensure management and administration duties. They must also have good moral character and possess local management skills.