Madagascar's opposition chief declares himself president
Madagascar's opposition chief emerged from two weeks in hiding to declare himself president, setting up another showdown with the country's increasingly isolated leader, who defied demands to resign.
Embattled President Marc Ravalomanana prevailed the first time the two men tangled, but now his power base has disappeared against an opposition that is promising elections within two years on this island off southeastern Africa known for its wildlife and eco-tourism, but also its widespread poverty and political unrest.
On Saturday, Mr Ravalomanana - a master of political infighting - refused to quit, even though he has lost the support of much of the military.
"I am still president," Mr Ravalomanana, 49, declared outside the presidential palace to a crowd of some 2,000 supporters, many wielding bars and sticks.
But in another part of the capital, opposition leader Andry Rajoelina, 34, set a deadline of just a few hours for Mr Ravalomanana to dissolve the government and give up the leadership of this poor Indian Ocean island of 20 million people.
The opposition also moved without resistance into the empty offices of the less powerful prime minister and named someone to replace him.
More than 100 people have been killed since demonstrations first erupted in Madagascar in January.
