Madagascar's armed forces on top alert

By Alain Ilonianina

ANTANANARIVO (Reuters) - Madagascar's armed forces are on maximum alert, days after African economic bloc COMESA declared military intervention to end the island's political crisis remained an option, the government said on Friday.

Armed Forces Minister Noel Rakotonandrasana told Reuters that COMESA's stance, which has drawn criticism from both France and the United Nations, had to be taken seriously.

In the centre of the capital, security forces fired tear gas at supporters of ousted leader Marc Ravalomanana who were gathering ahead of a rally as the international community urged the country's feuding political parties to agree on the terms of a consensus government.

"In the end, that (military intervention) could become a reality. We are on maximum alert to guarantee the security of Madagascar's territory," said Rakotonandrasana.

All measures had been taken including the surveillance of the world's fourth largest island's coastline, he said.

COMESA's 19 members said on Monday it was imperative to restore constitutional order on the Indian Ocean island and refused to rule out an armed intervention.

France reacted saying political dialogue should be pursued while the U.N.'s envoy Tiebile Drame -- who is mediating faltering political talks -- called the declaration unhelpful.

Madagascar has been in political limbo since new president Andry Rajoelina overthrew Ravalomanana with the support of dissident troops in March.