Shortly after the verdict, Ravalomanana, a close ally of former Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina, vowed to appeal the decision.
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Prosecutors accused the former Senate president of ordering security forces to use force against demonstrations held between September and October last year. The protests were triggered by shortages of electricity and drinking water.
A United Nations report said at least 22 people were killed and more than 100 injured during the security crackdown. The unrest later contributed to a political crisis that led to the end of Rajoelina’s government.
Ravalomanana was removed as Senate president in October and arrested in December after reportedly refusing several summonses from the gendarmerie. His lawyers have challenged the prosecution’s case, arguing that prosecutors failed to provide written or audio evidence directly linking him to the alleged orders.
