Madagascar Military Announces Seizure of Power Amid Political Turmoil

President Rajoelina Retreats to ‘Safe Place’ as Youth-Led Protests Escalate

A powerful elite military unit has declared that it has seized control of Madagascar, following weeks of mass protests across the island nation. On Tuesday, standing outside the presidential palace in Antananarivo, Col Michael Randrianirina, head of CAPSAT, announced that the military would form a transitional government and organize elections within two years. He also suspended the electoral commission and other democratic institutions.

“Gen Z protesters will be part of the changes because the movement was created in the streets, so we have to respect their demands,” Col Randrianirina declared.

Youth-Led Protests Pave the Way

The military takeover follows nearly three weeks of youth-led demonstrations over widespread water and power shortages, which evolved into broader anti-government protests. Thousands of demonstrators, waving flags and chanting for change, gathered in Antananarivo as soldiers joined the celebrations. CAPSAT, once a crucial backer of President Andry Rajoelina in 2009, shifted allegiance to protesters over the weekend an event seen as a turning point.

New Leadership Installed

The Constitutional Court of Madagascar officially named Col Randrianirina as interim leader of the country. However, the presidential office released a statement denouncing the move as an “attempted coup d’état,” insisting that Rajoelina remains president.

Rajoelina revealed that he was in a “safe place” after an alleged assassination attempt involving “military personnel and politicians.” CAPSAT denied any involvement. Unconfirmed reports claim the president may have been flown out of the country on a French Armed Forces aircraft.

Political Tensions Deepen

The crisis intensified as lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to impeach Rajoelina 130 votes in favor, with only one blank ballot even members of his party backing the move. The president attempted to dissolve parliament before the vote but failed. He has rejected the impeachment as “null and void,” maintaining his claim to the presidency despite mounting opposition.

Unrest Claims Lives

The protests began as peaceful demonstrations over daily hardships blackouts and water shortages but escalated rapidly as frustration with government corruption, unemployment, and the cost-of-living crisis grew. Clashes with security forces have left at least 22 people dead and more than 100 injured, according to United Nations figures, though the Malagasy government dismissed those numbers as “rumours and misinformation.”

A Once Popular Leader Falls Out of Favor

Rajoelina, a former DJ and entrepreneur, first rose to power at just 34, making him one of Africa’s youngest heads of state. Initially seen as a symbol of change, his government later faced accusations of cronyism and corruption. He returned to power after the 2018 elections but struggled to maintain public trust amid worsening economic conditions.

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International Reactions

The African Union strongly condemned the military’s actions, rejecting “any attempt at unconstitutional changes of government” and warning soldiers against political interference. Emmanuel Macron, President of France, described the situation as “greatly worrying.” The United States Department of State called on all parties to pursue a peaceful solution in line with constitutional order.

Madagascar’s Fragile Political Landscape

This crisis marks yet another political upheaval in Madagascar’s recent history. The country has endured multiple power struggles over the past two decades, contributing to widespread instability. With approximately 75% of its 30 million citizens living below the poverty line, according to World Bank data, the political crisis risks worsening already dire economic conditions.

What Comes Next

Col Randrianirina has promised elections within two years, while including youth voices in governancea move that resonates with the protest movement. However, questions remain over whether the military can stabilize the country or if this takeover will deepen divisions.

As soldiers celebrate in the capital and the president remains in hiding, Madagascar faces an uncertain future caught between popular discontent, military control, and international pressure for democratic restoration.

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