In October, Madagascar's armed forces overthrew the government led by President Andry Rajoelina after weeks of popular protests centred on low standards of living, allegations of corruption and lack of economic opportunities.
Upon taking control of the presidential palace in Antananarivo, the authorities discovered 300 kg of emerald rock which they alleged had been hidden by the previous government. The government announced shortly afterwards that the emeralds would be sold on international markets, where at current prices they sell for around 80 a gram.
Newly installed President Michael Randrianirina, a senior military leader, said: "we discovered this national treasure... we don't know why it was hidden here, but we are simply glad to show that we are ready to live with transparency."
