The Island nation of Madagascar, on Monday, declared a day of national mourning to honor the memory of former President Didier Ratsiraka, who died on Sunday.
Tributes to this emblematic figure of Malagasy political life have followed the announcement of his passing away. The flags will be flown at half-mast across the country and in all diplomatic missions, the government says.
Nicknamed “the Red Admiral,” Ratsiraka, died at the age of 84 years. He first led the country from 1975 to 1991 and then from 1997 to 2002 succumbed to a heart attack after having been hospitalized Tuesday for flu, according to his relatives.” Madagascar has lost a distinguished patriot,” said current President Andry Rajoelina, when paying tribute to the deceased.
CD/fss/abj/APA