Opposition leader says controlling army

Madagascar's opposition leader Andry Rajoelina said yesterday that he had the army's backing and was giving the orders during a standoff with the Indian Ocean island's president.

He is urging President Marc Ravalomanana to step down in a crisis that has killed more than 135 people this year and threatens to derail Madagascar's economy.

"Of course it is me who is giving the army orders. I am in permanent contact with them," Rajoelina said.