Malagasy journalists under siegeBy RIVONALA RAZAFISON in Antananarivo | Friday, April 27   2012 at  19:08

Two Malagasy journalist are due to face trial next week.

Ms Lalatiana Rakotondrazafy and Mr Fidèle Razarapiera of the Free FM radio Thursday were summoned to appear before the criminal investigation officers.
They are accused of defamation, propagation of false news and insult, following their comments after the sacking of the country’s Environment and Forestry Minister , Mr Joseph Randriamiandrisoa, two weeks ago.

The sacked man made headlines when he alleged at a press conference that a young billionaire, who is a close ally of President Andry Rajoelina, was behind the illegal trafficking of precious woods in Madagascar.

Madagascar has witnessed aggressive crackdown on the media following the 2009 coup.

At the same time, Madagascar authorities have threatened to shut down an Antananarivo private-owned radio station.