Maputo: Leaders of Madagascar's main political movements on Sunday signed a transition blueprint, ending months of crisis on the island nation that had led to international isolation and halts in foreign aid.
An accord and accompanying transition charter foresee a transition period of 15 months during which Legislative and Presidential Elections should be held under international supervision, according to UN mediator Tiebile Drame.
Madagascar has become increasingly isolated since Marc Ravalomanana was forced to abandon the presidency and flee in March following riots that left over 100 dead, with the international community pushing for a return to constitutional order and suspending the bulk of its aid to one of the world's poorest states.
Ravalomanana, who took part in the internationally-back talks here, indicated that under the terms of the accord he will not personally take part in the political transition in the island nation.
"In the interests of the nation, and following consultations, it seems reasonable to me to not participate personally in the transition," Ravalomanana told journalists, adding that his party would take part in the transition institutions.
Ravalomanana said however that he would return home to Madagascar under the terms of the accord, which grants him an amnesty from a corruption conviction.
Bureau Report
First Published: Sunday, August 09, 2009, 10:02