Madagascar’s military has declared it has seized control of the government after President Andry Rajoelina fled to a safe location, amid escalating protests and political turmoil that have gripped the Indian Ocean island nation.
On Tuesday, an elite military unit known as CAPSAT announced it had taken power in Madagascar. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, the head of CAPSAT, stated outside the presidential palace that the military would form a new government and hold elections within two years, while suspending key democratic institutions such as the electoral commission. He emphasized that the demands of the Gen Z protesters would be respected, as the movement originated from the streets, and thousands of troops and civilians celebrated in the capital, Antananarivo, waving flags and cheering the apparent ousting.
The seizure of power follows weeks of youth-led protests that began over chronic water and power cuts but quickly expanded to include broader grievances such as high unemployment, rampant corruption, and the cost-of-living crisis. Demonstrations escalated, leading to clashes with security forces, and according to the United Nations, at least 22 people have been killed and more than 100 injured. The Malagasy government has dismissed these figures as based on rumors and misinformation, highlighting the deep divisions and unrest.
President Rajoelina, whose whereabouts are unknown, confirmed he had moved to a “safe place” due to threats on his life, which he attributed to military personnel and politicians. CAPSAT denied any involvement in such threats, and there have been unconfirmed reports that Rajoelina was flown out of the country on a French military aircraft. Despite the military’s assertion of control, Rajoelina’s office denounced the events as an attempted coup and claimed he was still in charge.
Concurrently, Madagascar’s parliament voted to impeach Rajoelina for abandonment of post, with 130 votes in favor and one blank ballot, including support from members of his own party, Irmar. Rajoelina rejected the vote as null and void and had earlier attempted to dissolve the national assembly to prevent it, but the move was ineffective. The constitutional court named Col Randrianirina as the new leader, adding to the political confusion and legitimacy disputes.
International actors have responded with concern over the instability. The United States state department urged all sides to pursue a peaceful solution in line with the constitutional order, while the African Union warned against soldiers meddling in political affairs and rejected any attempt at unconstitutional changes of government. French President Emmanuel Macron called the situation greatly worrying, reflecting broader apprehension about the impact on regional stability.
Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world, with 75% of its 30 million people living below the poverty line, according to the World Bank. The island has experienced a series of political upheavals in recent years, and Rajoelina, who first came to power in 2009 with military support, was once seen as a fresh start but faced allegations of cronyism and corruption that eroded public trust.
As the military promises elections and inclusion of protester demands, the situation remains fluid, with the future governance of Madagascar hanging in the balance. The transitional period will likely be shaped by international pressure, internal negotiations, and the military’s ability to address the underlying economic and social issues that fueled the protests.