Madagascar Military Seizes Control After President Impeached
The elite military in Madagascar has taken power after President Andry Rajoelina was impeached and forced to flee following weeks of protests.
Key Developments
- Military announces dissolution of all institutions except National Assembly
- Military-led committee to rule for up to two years before elections
- Gen Z protesters to be included in transitional process
- Multiple key institutions suspended including Senate and Constitutional Court
“We have taken the power,” Colonel Michael Randrianirina announced on national radio, according to Reuters.
The military is dissolving all institutions except the lower house of parliament, with Randrianirina stating that Gen Z protesters will be part of changes because “the movement was created in the streets so we have to respect their demands.”
Transition Plan Announced
A military-led committee will rule the country for up to two years alongside a transitional government before organizing new elections.
The military suspended several key institutions including: the Senate, the High Constitutional Court, the Independent National Electoral Commission, the High Court of Justice, and the High Council for the Defense of Human Rights and the Rule of Law.
Background to the Crisis
Rajoelina had refused to step down despite escalating Gen Z demonstrations demanding his resignation and widespread defections in the army. He originally came to power in 2009 via a coup.
Earlier on Tuesday, thousands of protesters gathered at Antananarivo’s 13 May Square, waving banners denouncing Rajoelina as a French stooge due to his dual citizenship and support from Madagascar’s former colonizer.
During the protest, Randrianirina asked the crowd: “Are you ready to accept a military takeover?” – drawing cheers of approval from the demonstrators.
