Domestic
Claude Emile Sylvain: The New Strong Man of Diego
Madagascar's deputy elected to Antsiranana, Claude Emile Sylvain, is meeting the expectations of his constituents. Not only is he listening to his people, but he is also taking action. On Saturday, June 27, he and local authorities—including DIANA region chief Louis Francio Marovavy, Antsiranana prefect Lucien Manajara, and Diego-Suarez urban commune mayor—visited the Tanambao-Sud fokontany to inspect progress on construction and concrete development of five alleyways, as well as reinforced concrete covered drainage channels. Financed by the Investment Credit for Development Support, this project is scheduled for 60 days. These alleyways had never been rehabilitated since the Tsiranana era. The deputy's initiative was praised by neighborhood residents. "These damaged drainage channels emit unbearable odors during the rainy season. Plus, they overflow. Since my childhood, it was always like this. Today, at 52, I have the chance to see these rehabilitations. We are grateful," testified Ahmadou Ismaël, a neighborhood resident. Beyond his commitment to developing his hometown, his intervention during the National Assembly's ordinary session at Tsimbazaza on Thursday, July 2, was also applauded by a large portion of Antsiranana's population. In addition to remarks about low recruitment of ENSET graduates from Antsiranana University and lack of transportation for magistrates and prison officers facing significant mobility difficulties, the parliamentarian challenged the Energy Minister regarding power cuts continuing to strike the North's capital. He also addressed the Public Security Minister, emphasizing that insecurity linked to the electricity crisis constitutes an alarming situation. The city of Sugarloaf has suffered over the past two months. Residents no longer hide their disappointment. Antsiranana, one of the cities that mobilized strongly during September-October 2025 protests against power cuts, continues living in total darkness. Claude Emile Sylvain urged concerned government members to assume their responsibilities promptly to prevent another popular uprising in his locality. The Energy Minister visited the Amporaha site on Sunday, June 28, where the "new generators" are installed, welcomed with great fanfare a month earlier following a meeting with local authorities and Jirama technicians in the presence of journalists. The department's top official had then reassured Diego-Suarez residents. "Power cuts will be resolved very soon," he stated confidently. A promise that, so far, struggles to materialize, with no notable changes observed a week after his visit. Ultimately, Honorable Emile Claude Sylvain's words reflect genuine empathy toward his compatriots. He is not one to hide behind tinted windows, nor one who appears only at inaugurations or ceremonies for mere show. He seeks to be present, attentive, and above all understanding.
Source: Midi Madagasikara