Antananarivo - The Madagascar military opened fire on an anti-government demonstration on Saturday, according to eyewitness reports, with at least twenty people dead.

At least 10,000 people attended the demonstration in support of Antananarivo ex-mayor Andry Rajoelina, who last week unilaterally declared himself president, in opposition to current head of state Marc Ravalomanana.

The demonstration took place outside the presidential palace, where heavily armed troops had been installed. (dpa)