Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has won a new term after his success in the first round of elections, as announced by the electoral body on Saturday. The opposition boycotted the voting process and has declared its refusal to recognize the results.

Rajoelina secured 58.95% of the votes in the electoral round held on November 16, according to the results released by the electoral body. This means his reelection to the presidency without the need for a second round.

The voter turnout reached 46%, lower than the previous elections in 2018.

Rajoelina, aged 49, first assumed the presidency in 2009 after a rebellion ousted then-President Marc Ravalomanana. He remained in office until 2014 before being reelected in 2018.

After announcing his victory, Rajoelina stated, The people of Madagascar have chosen the path of continuity, reassurance, and stability.

Rajoelina competed in the elections alongside 12 other candidates. However, 10 opposition candidates withdrew from the race, urging the 11 million voters to boycott the first round.