European Union election observers say there were only a small number of irregularities in Madagascar's election on Wednesday.

The head of the EU team, Cristian Preda, said these would not affect the credibility of the poll.

On Thursday one of the presidential candidates, Hery Rajaonarimampianina, denounced the election as fraudulent.

He stepped down as president in September in order to run for office again - as required under Madagascar's constitution.

Results from just 6% of polling stations so far give a clear lead to two other former presidents, Andry Rajoelina and Marc Ravalomanana.