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Madagascar planned auction of oil exploration rights of two blocks of 18 oil exploration blocks offered for sale. But the plan delayed auction of exploration rights due to political interference in the country.

Madagascar General Office of National Mines and Strategic Industries, Joeli Lalaharisaina, said, “Madagascar postpone the auction of oil exploration rights until next year as a result of the political crisis in the country Madagascar.”

Madagascar has been in political turmoil since March, when Marc Ravalomanana resigned as president after weeks of violent protests led by opposition leader Andry Rajoelina. Madagascar was suspended from the African Union and the 15-member Southern African Development Community after Rajoelina declared himself president with the support of the army.

A power-sharing agreement signed on Aug. 9 by the four main parties has stalled because they have failed to agree on the top three positions in a transitional government.

While the crisis has not halted the search for oil, prospectors sought a one-year extension to fulfill the conditions of their licenses, including deadlines to begin drilling, and this has been granted, Lalaharisaina said.

Sixteen companies, including Total SA, Black Marlin Energy Corp. and Sino Union Petroleum & Chemical International Ltd. are currently exploring for oil in 24 blocks in Madagascar.

The Indian Ocean island could produce up to 200,000 barrels of crude a day by 2011, according to the country’s oil agency.

Production may begin within two years, Lalaharisaina said in an interview.

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