Discourse analysis of ratsiraka and ravalomanana

Our research project deals with political discourse analysis. It mainly works on the 65 articles produced by Midi Madagasikara, published during the 2001 presidential campaign. Our objective consists in identifying the possible reasons why the electorate has voted for either Ratsiraka or Ravalomanana. To attain our objective, we have determined the main themes contained in the reported discourse of the candidates and in that of the partisans. We have also detected Midi''s views which enable us to fish out its position with regards to the two candidates. The discourses of Ratsiraka and his partisans focus particularly on national unity, autonomous provinces, social peace and economic growth. Those of Ravalomanana and his staff lay stress on poverty, respect, and chage. As for Midi Madagasikara''s views, the paper was in favour of Ravalomanana.