Madagascar president asks for one year to resolve problems or he will resign

Madagascar's President, Andry Rajoelina, has requested a one-year grace period to resolve the country's pressing issues, threatening to resign if he fails to do so. The announcement came during a meeting with political parties and civil society organizations, although the movement behind the recent protests refused to attend the gathering. Rajoelina acknowledged the economic and social challenges facing the island nation, including high inflation, unemployment, and poverty. He pledged to implement reforms and address the concerns raised by the protesters, who have been demonstrating for several weeks against his administration. The president's ultimatum has been met with skepticism, as the protest movement has expressed a lack of trust in his ability to deliver on his promises. The situation in Madagascar remains volatile, with the country facing a critical juncture in its political and economic development.