The Council for World Mission has joined its member church in Madagascar in calling for an end to the intimidation of innocent civilians in the capital Antananarivo following fresh political violence.

Chaos broke out in the city on the afternoon of 20 May when a gun battle flared up between military forces and a rebel police faction during a politically charged demonstration.

The conflict resulted in the death of several members of security forces and a number of civilians.

CWM moderator Rev Dr Prince Dibeela said CWM condemned the events of Thursday 20 May which saw one Church of Jesus Christ in Madagascar (FJKM) minister killed and eight others forced into hiding after violent clashes between rival security forces.

In a letter to the CWM-member FJKM, he assured church leaders of the continued prayers and support of CWM's global community.

"We have received with sadness the news of violence yet again leading to loss of life in Madagascar. CWM assures you of our solidarity at this time and our prayers for an end to this self-destruction," he said.

FJKM minister Pastor Ranaivo Rivoarison, who was not part of the events, died in hospital after being hit by a stray bullet as he walked near army barracks where the gunfire erupted. His funeral was due to take place in Antananarivo on Monday 24 May.

Dr Dibeela said: "Our heartfelt prayers go out to the family of Pastor Rivoarison. As a global partnership of churches we con! tinue to pray for a peaceful political solution in Madagascar."

Reports of threats to arrest religious leaders have also surfaced following Thursday's events. FJKM president, Rev Lala Rasendrahasina, said eight ministers from the Religious Leaders’ Movement have gone into hiding with their families. A number of presenters from Radio Fahazavana, the FJKM radio, have also been detained by police. CWM is calling for their immediate release.

The FJKM has issued a statement condemning the violence and threats to the church and its people, and asked its communities to remain calm.

Rev Rasendrahasina said: "We ask our brothers and sisters in Christ to join us in prayer for the FJKM and the Malagasy people. Please pray for Pastor Rivo’s family and for those detained or in hiding. Please pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the church as it seeks to fulfill God’s call to stand for justice and righteousness while showing love and forgi! veness rather than hatred and vengeance."