ADDIS ABABA - The African Union met to impose sanctions yesterday on Madagascar's de facto authorities for defying the bloc's calls to implement accords to end a year-long political crisis.

ADDIS ABABA - The African Union met to impose sanctions yesterday on Madagascar's de facto authorities for defying the bloc's calls to implement accords to end a year-long political crisis.

The 53-member grouping on February 16 issued a one-month ultimatum to the Indian Ocean island's leadership, headed by strongman Andry Rajoelina, to comply with agreements reached in a series of negotiations with rivals last year.

"In situations like these, the AU has made it clear that it imposes sanctions," an AU diplomat said on condition of anonymity.

"Today's measures will most probably be 'no travelling' for Rajoelina and his staff.

"They are also likely to impose economic restrictions, which could include asset freezes," the diplomat said. - Sapa-AFP