Trial of Madagascar failed coup suspects to begin

The trial of suspected organisers of a failed coup in Madagascar is set to begin on Monday.

Some 21 accused persons, among them French nationals, will appear in a court in the capital Antananarivo.

They are accused of plotting to assassinate President Andry Rajoelina. They have all denied the charges.

One of the accused, Paul Rafanoharana - a French-Malagasy - is a former adviser to the president.

His lawyer is quoted by the AFP news agency as saying that the trial is unfair as the time given for preparation was limited and that access to his client was difficult.

This article originally appeared on BBC News

Photo: AFP