The Frenchman was re-elected by 56 votes to one against at an election held in the Madagascan capital.

It will mark his fourth term in the post after first assuming the position in 2004.

The 71-year-old was the only candidate for the position and has already claimed that this will be his last term in office.

He will prioritise ensuring the sport is added to the programme for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

"I am disappointed by the lack of action taken by the national federations, as part of our 2024 project," Azéma, who also heads the International Olympic Committee-recognised boules umbrella organisation, the Confédération Mondiale des Sports de Boules (CMSB), was quoted as saying by expressmada.

"We must promote our discipline. 

"This must become a reflex for everyone to highlight, at every opportunity, petanque and the application for 2024. 

"Personally, I ask each federation to organise a meeting with members of the International Olympic Committee of each country, to convince them to support the integration of pétanque at the Olympic Games. 

"I need the contribution of everyone in this battle."

The popularity of boules and pétanque in France is thought to help their 2024 ambition. 

Two other French officials were elected to senior posts.

Céline Péronnet received 42 votes to serve as secretary general while Michel Signaire received the same number for the treasurer position.

Eight unconfirmed African countries also boycotted the vote in "protest against the functioning of the African Confederation".