A case of embezzlement within the Ministry of National Education was referred to the Anti-Corruption Pole (PAC) prosecutor on Saturday, August 8. Five individuals have been sent to the Antanimora central prison.
The suspects are charged with multiple offenses, including embezzlement of public funds, abuse of power, granting and obtaining unjustified advantages, money laundering, forgery, and complicity, related to the procurement of school desks for ‘Manarapenitra’ schools. The contract, awarded under the Ministry of National Education during the 2020-2021 fiscal year, totaled 833,236,600 Ariary.
The Ministry of Justice highlighted irregularities such as the awarding of direct contracts in violation of current legislation and the accumulation of multiple roles by a single individual, who acted simultaneously as the contracting authority, secondary authorizing officer, public procurement officer (PRMP), activity manager, and head of the reception and payment commission, despite distinct officials being appointed for these roles.
Furthermore, delivery discrepancies were noted. While the contract covered 18,399 desks for a total of 8,327,387,583.99 Ariary, only 16,558 units were actually delivered. The missing 1,841 desks represent a loss of 833,236,600 Ariary. Most suspects allegedly signed fraudulent reception reports. Additionally, the use of front men was identified to conceal the true owners of the companies involved.
In total, nine people and three companies are implicated. Only five suspects appeared at the hearing, while three others have fled abroad. Former Minister of National Education, Marie Michelle Sahondrarimalala, is reportedly among those implicated. The investigation will also determine the involvement of the former President of the Republic and one of his close relatives. Due to their jurisdictional privileges, the PAC cannot prosecute them; the case concerning Marie Michelle Sahondrarimalala has been referred to the High Court of Justice.
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-11 06:09:08 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/08/detournement-de-deniers-publics-cinq.html