Madagascar plunged into political turmoil on Tuesday after the military announced it had taken control of the government, following the impeachment and flight of President Andry Rajoelina. The dramatic takeover came after weeks of youth-led protests that swept across the Indian Ocean island nation.
Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who led a mutiny within the army, declared on national radio that the military had assumed power and dissolved several key institutions, including the Senate, the High Constitutional Court, and the National Electoral Commission. Only the National Assembly was left intact.
Randrianirina said the military would oversee a two-year transitional period alongside a civilian-led interim government before organizing fresh elections. “We have taken power,” he stated firmly, as jubilant crowds filled Antananarivo’s streets celebrating Rajoelina’s departure.
The 51-year-old Rajoelina, who himself rose to power through a coup in 2009, reportedly fled Madagascar aboard a French military aircraft on Sunday after his own ruling coalition turned against him. Lawmakers accused him of violating the constitution and engaging in activities incompatible with his office.
The protests, initially sparked on September 25 over water and power shortages, quickly evolved into a nationwide movement demanding better governance, transparency, and public services. Led largely by Gen Z activists, demonstrators carried Malagasy flags and waved the skull-and-crossbones emblem from the anime One Piece, which has become a symbol of youth resistance.
While many citizens rejoiced at Rajoelina’s ouster, some expressed caution, urging the military to restore civilian rule quickly. “They need to hand over to a civilian administration and hold elections soon,” said one resident in the capital.
With Madagascar’s economy in shambles three-quarters of its 30 million citizens living in poverty the new military-led leadership faces enormous pressure to stabilize the nation and rebuild public trust.
