In pictures: Madagascar crisis

Madagascar's opposition leader Andry Rajoelina has been parading through the narrow streets of the capital Antananarivo, proclaiming himself the country's new president.

Mr Rajoelina now occupies the city-centre offices of President Marc Ravalomanana, who resigned, handing power to what he called a military directorate.

Rebel soldiers led Mr Rajoelina's convoy to a rally in the capital of the Indian Ocean island, where the months-long power struggle has left 135 people dead.

Throngs of supporters gathered to welcome their self-declared leader, ending seven years of rule under President Ravalomanana.

Mr Rajoelina promised elections within two years, telling supporters: "We can say that we are free. There is a lot of work that awaits us. It is the path Madagascar must take."

Despite international concern that he should have gone to the ballot box, Mr Rajoelina appeared to have sufficient domestic support to consolidate power on the island.

The military ignored a warning from the African Union, which opposes any unconstitutional transfer of power, not to hand over to the opposition.

But with most of the military against him, former President Ravalomanana - last seen at a rally on Sunday - had no option but to step down, analysts said.

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