Thousands of supporters of Madagascar’s opposition leader and self-declared president swarmed government ministries today in their first attempt to install alternative cabinet ministers into office. Despite martial law that was declared after election-related violence began to flare last week, soldiers guarding the Finance Ministry did not prevent the alternative finance minister from entering the building. Crowds also surrounded the Energy and Mines Ministry. Opposition supporters had set up barricades and trenches throughout the city over the weekend to help prevent military vehicles from entering the capital. Unrest in Madagascar started after Marc Ravalomanana declared himself president nine days ago, disputing official election results. He said he won more than half the vote in the December 16th presidential race.