Madagascar leader defends move in dual nationality scandal

Andry Rajoelina, President of Madagascar, has defended his acquisition of French nationality in the interest of his children and doubled down that he will always defend the African country.
Rajoelina has come under scrutiny since June after it was revealed that has dual nationality. His critics and the opposition questioned his integrity in claiming Madagascar’s ownership of Scattered Islands in the Indian Ocean, still control by former colonial power France.
“Dual nationality should not be a sin”, Rajoelina said in an interview to state-run television.
“I was no longer in power at the time, and I accepted this step in the interests of my children, who were to pursue university studies in France. What parent wouldn’t do anything for their children?”, he added.
“The leaders of the nationalist movement during the struggle against colonization, such as Jean Ralaimongo, Raseta and Ravoahangy, all had French nationality, but this did not prevent them from fighting and dying for the nation”, stressed A. Rajoelina. 49-year old leader brushed aside expectations to see him abandoning the French nationality as he seeks another term in office.
“8 centimetres of paper in my pocket in no way diminishes my love for my country. I’m a patriot and I’m ready to die for Madagascar”, he concluded.