The military in Madagascar has taken control of the government amid youth-led protests across the island. CAPSAT, the elite military unit, announced it would form a provisional government and hold elections within two years.
Colonel Michael Randrianirina, CAPSAT’s leader, declared the suspension of democratic institutions including the electoral commission. He stated, “the movement was created in the streets so we have to respect their demands.”
In Antananarivo, soldiers and protesters celebrated the apparent removal of President Andry Rajoelina. Though Madagascar’s constitutional court named Col. Randrianirina interim leader, the presidency insists Rajoelina remains in charge and labelled the takeover an “attempted coup d’etat.”
His location is unknown, but he says he is in a safe place after an alleged assassination attempt. CAPSAT denies any role.
Reports suggest Rajoelina may have been flown out on a French military aircraft. The U.S. has urged a peaceful resolution respecting constitutional order.
The unrest began over two weeks ago with youth protests against water and power shortages that escalated into broader dissatisfaction with unemployment, corruption, and rising living costs under Rajoelina’s tenure.
The UN reports at least 22 deaths and over 100 injuries during clashes, though the government disputes these figures as “rumours and misinformation.”
Rajoelina, once praised as Africa’s youngest president at 34, has faced corruption allegations which he denies. He tried to dissolve parliament before an impeachment vote but failed.
Parliament voted overwhelmingly to impeach him, including many from his own party. Rajoelina rejected the vote as null and void.
The African Union condemned military interference and unconstitutional power grabs. French President Emmanuel Macron called the crisis “greatly worrying.”
Madagascar, one of the world’s poorest countries, has seen repeated political instability. With 75% of its population living below the poverty line, the island now faces an uncertain political future amid calls for peace and constitutional respect.