U.N. calls for smooth, peaceful transition

ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar, March 30 (UPI) -- The United Nations is calling on leaders in Madagascar to open a dialogue and address the root causes of the recent violence in the country.

Tensions in Madagascar between former President Marc Ravalomanana and Andry Rajoelina, who was recently installed as the country's new president, led to the death of approximately 100 people due to widespread violent protests. The United Nations again called on Madagascar's leaders to resolve differences in a peaceful way through an inclusive dialogue, the United Nations reported.

"The United Nations continues to believe that stability, prosperity and democratic freedoms can be ensured only through a consensual and inclusive dialogue process that would address the root causes of the crisis and would be accepted by all parties," Michele Montas, a U.N. spokesperson, said in a statement.

Montas said Tiebile Drame, U.N. senior adviser to Madagascar, will be traveling to the country to help support a smooth transition of leadership and work with top officials in the country to ensure stability through democratic means.