Army general forced to resign over recent troubles

Army General Edmond Rasolofomahandry was forced to resign on 11 March 2009, one day after he issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the government to restore peace and order to Madagascar or else risk military intervention. Reports indicate that pro-opposition soldiers peacefully took over the Malagasy army headquarters and forced Rasolofomahandry to step down from office. Andre Andriarijaona has been sworn in as the new army chief and has dismissed reports that the military is divided. It is unclear if the ultimatum is still in effect, or what action the army is planning to take next. Meanwhile, opposition leader Andry Rajoelina announced on 11 March that he will boycott upcoming negotiations to end the island' political crisis. Rajoelina stated that the timing is not right to resume talks and that the church leaders who will mediate the negotiations lack credibility. The national convention is scheduled to take place from 12-14 March in Antananarivo. President Marc Ravalomanana has stated his intention to attend the convention.