Must-read thread details how Russian operatives sought to implant themselves into the campaigns of several Madagascar presidential candidates. By offering $$, campaign strategy support (likely dirty tricks), & personal bodyguards they positioned themselves to become kingmakers.

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THREAD In the lead-up to Madagascar’s 2018 Presidential elections, teams of Russian 'tourists' and 'observers' were spotted on the island. Who were these Russians? What were they doing in the country? And who was backing them? #BBCAfricaEye investigates.

This is Madagascar. A jewel in the Indian Ocean. It just had a key presidential election. But there have been rumours of outside influence and suspicion of foreign funding on a large scale.

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It all started with the arrival of a group of Russians in March last year, 8 months before the election. Most stayed in La Residence Ankerana, a secluded hotel in a quiet part of the capital Antananarivo.

Some Russians claimed to be 'tourists'. Others came to Madagascar to 'observe' the elections. So who were the men behind the suits and tourist clothing?

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