Madagascar Plunges into Political Turmoil as Elite Army Unit Overthrows President Rajoelina
Madagascar's political landscape has been dramatically reshaped as an elite army unit, the CAPSAT, staged a coup, ousting President Andry Rajoelina, who has reportedly fled the country. The coup was led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who is now set to assume the presidency, plunging the country into a period of uncertainty.
Background and Context
President Rajoelina's rise to power 16 years ago was largely supported by the very same CAPSAT unit that has now turned against him. The shift in allegiance came after weeks of youth-led protests, spearheaded by groups identifying as Gen Z Madagascar
, demanding Rajoelina's resignation. The protests initially arose from dissatisfaction with power and water cuts, but quickly escalated into broader anti-government rallies.
Key Developments
Amid the escalating protests, Rajoelina reportedly left Madagascar on a French military plane. His departure was confirmed soon after by the opposition leader. In response to the president's departure, crowds celebrated in the streets of the capital, Antananarivo.
In a national broadcast, Colonel Michael Randrianirina declared, We have taken power,
asserting that the armed forces would form a council made up of officers from the military and police and appoint a prime minister to form a civilian government. Randrianirina also announced that the constitution and the High Constitutional Court’s powers had been suspended and that a referendum would be held in two years.
Implications and Reactions
The political upheaval has drawn international attention as the African Union suspended Madagascar's membership following the military takeover. The Union has a policy of not recognizing governments that come to power through unconstitutional means.
The coup has had a significant impact on Madagascar's citizens, with reports of casualties due to police tear gas during the protests. The youth-led Gen Z protests have underscored the dire economic conditions within the country, where a significant portion of the young population remains unemployed.
Current Status
Colonel Michael Randrianirina is expected to be sworn in as the transitional president of Madagascar on Friday, according to a statement by the country’s new leadership. The entire process and institutions of the country will reportedly be supervised by a military committee.
This marks a significant turn in Madagascar's political history as the country faces an uncertain future under military rule. The global community watches closely as the events continue to unfold in the island nation.