However, Ravalomanana rejected the results and declared himself President in February 2002, resulting in violence breaking out between supporters of the two candidates. A recount was held, after which Ravalomanana was awarded 51.46% of the votes, and in April the High Constitutional Court declared him the winner.
Ravalomanana's decision to reject the election results sparked violence between supporters of the two candidates in February 2002, leading to a re-examination that ultimately resulted in Ravalomanana being awarded 51.46% of the votes and declared the winner by the High Constitutional Court in April.