Historian Jean Valette, drawing on archival sources regarding the death of the Governor of Toamasina, highlights three letters written between August and September 1828 by Prince Ratefinanahary (Ratefy) to the Governor of Mauritius, Sir Charles Colville. The third letter, dated September 13, reflects the prince’s tragic desperation as he was summoned to Antananarivo, a journey from which he feared he would not return.
Governor Colville’s response on September 27 offered limited support, expressing that while he could provide temporary refuge, he could not grant permanent asylum due to the delicate diplomatic relations between Great Britain and the new Malagasy Queen. Captain Polkinghorne of the warship ‘Sparrowhawk’ was tasked with delivering this message, but the political situation in Madagascar deteriorated rapidly.
Eyewitness accounts, including those from Reverend Bennet and the French agent Dayot, detail the prince’s failed attempt to flee to the coast. Despite his efforts to secure passage to Mauritius, Ratefy and his wife, Rabodosahondra, were intercepted by the Queen’s forces. According to historical records, Ratefy was executed with spears, and his wife was subsequently killed.
These accounts provide a somber look at the power struggles following the death of King Radama I, illustrating the precarious position of those who fell out of favor with the new regime of Queen Ranavalona I.
Captured & Published at: 2026-11-03 05:38:33 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/11/une-impossible-fuite-de-ratefy-vers.html