Military Leader Declares Himself President After Madagascar Coup
Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who led the military coup that ousted President Andry Rajoelina, has declared himself Madagascar’s new president. The armed forces will govern the African island nation for up to two years before holding elections.
Key Developments
- Col. Michael Randrianirina claims presidential authority following Tuesday’s military takeover
- Military rule expected to last 18-24 months before elections
- Coup followed weeks of youth-led protests over essential services and government corruption
- Ousted President Rajoelina rejects legitimacy of military government
Military Assumes Control
In his first international interview since seizing power, Randrianirina told The Associated Press he expects to be sworn in as president within days. “There must be an oath-taking” to formalize his position, he stated from his barracks, surrounded by fellow officers.
The colonel announced the military would remain in power “for at least 18 months, at most two years” while appointing a new prime minister to address the ongoing crisis.
Youth Protests Paved Way
The military takeover culminated weeks of demonstrations by “Gen Z Madagascar” groups demanding better governance and job opportunities. Protesters cited chronic water and electricity shortages, limited education access, and widespread poverty affecting 75% of the population.
Demonstrators cheered as Randrianirina’s elite CAPSAT unit rode through Antananarivo streets. “The military is listening to us,” one protest leader told AP.
“This is an awakening of the people. It was launched by the youth. And the military supported us,” said Safika, a protest leader using only one name. “We must always be wary, but the current state of affairs gives us reason to be confident.”
Conflicting Legal Claims
Randrianirina justified his ascension by claiming the High Constitutional Court invited him to lead in Rajoelina’s absence. However, this contradicted his earlier announcement suspending the court’s powers.
Rajoelina’s office alleged judges were threatened into approving the colonel’s takeover. The ousted president, who first came to power in a 2009 coup, rejected the military government’s legitimacy from exile.
International Reaction
The African Union called an emergency security council meeting but no significant immediate international response emerged. Some analysts condemned the military intervention.
“Gen-Zers in Madagascar have been protesting the lack of essential services for almost a month,” said Olufemi Taiwo, Cornell University professor. “This is a civil society uprising and its resolution should not involve the military.”
Taiwo urged the African Union to condemn “another coup that Africa does not need” and called on nations to withhold recognition of the military leadership.
