While the earlier candidates were relatively new to the general public, a few prominent political players from the past are expected to contest: former president Didier Ratsiraka, current president of the transition Andry Rajoelina and the spouse of former president Ravalomanana, Lalao Ravalomanana. 
Wakati wagombea wa awali walikuwa wapya kabisa wasiofahamika sana, wanasiasa wachache machachari wanaofahamika wanatarajiwa kugombea akiwemo rais wa zamani Didier Ratsiraka, rais wa sasa wa mpito Andry Rajoelina na mke wa rais wa zamani Ravalomanana, anayeitwa Lalao Ravalomanana.