Ex-Madagascar Presidential Aide arrested in Mauritius over $163 million money laundering

By Burnett Munthali

Mauritius authorities have arrested the aide to former Madagascan president Andry Rajoelina on suspicion of money laundering.

The arrest was confirmed by an official at Mauritius’ Financial Crimes Commission on Friday.

Maminiaina Ravatomanga fled to Mauritius after Rajoelina left Madagascar following youth-led protests.

Ravatomanga was taken into custody at a private clinic in Port Louis, where he had gone to seek medical treatment.

A commission spokesperson stated that the arrest was related to laundering 7.3 billion Mauritian rupees ($163 million) using assets in Mauritius.

The spokesperson added that the Financial Crimes Commission has reasonable grounds to believe Ravatomanga possessed property suspected to represent the proceeds of criminal activity.

Ravatomanga’s lawyer, Siddartha Hawaldar, confirmed his client was under arrest but did not comment on the allegations.

Madagascar’s new leader, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, was sworn in as president last Friday.

Randrianirina appointed businessman and consultant Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo as the country’s new prime minister on Monday.

Former president Rajoelina, who was impeached after fleeing abroad 12 days ago, has condemned the takeover.

Rajoelina has refused to step down while in exile, despite defections in the security forces and the High Constitutional Court ratifying the takeover.

The arrest of Ravatomanga highlights ongoing concerns about corruption and financial crimes linked to political figures in Madagascar.

Authorities in Mauritius continue to investigate the case while Madagascar navigates its new political landscape.