Madagascar’s military coup leader declared on Wednesday that he would assume the role of president and that the armed forces would govern the African island nation for a maximum of two years before any elections take place. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who spearheaded a revolt by soldiers that ousted President Andry Rajoelina, anticipates being inaugurated as the new leader of the Indian Ocean country in the coming days.
Randrianirina asserted that an official oath-taking ceremony would be necessary to formalize his position while stationed at his unit’s barracks alongside fellow officers. He emphasized that they would remain in power for a minimum of 18 months and up to two years. The military takeover in Madagascar was announced by Randrianirina on Tuesday, concluding a series of protests against Rajoelina and his administration by predominantly youth groups identifying as “Gen Z Madagascar.”
The demonstrators have been advocating for improved governance and increased opportunities in a nation plagued by profound poverty, echoing similar youth-led movements worldwide. Randrianirina specified that he assumed the role of head of state following an invitation from the country’s High Constitutional Court in the absence of Rajoelina, who fled Madagascar after the uprising.
The colonel disclosed that all institutions, except the lower house of parliament, were being dissolved by the military. He outlined plans for a committee led by the military to oversee the country alongside a transitional government for up to two years before arranging fresh elections. The United Nations reported that at least 22 individuals lost their lives due to the demonstrations in Antananarivo and other major cities in the nation of about 30 million people.
Randrianirina highlighted the urgency of appointing a new prime minister promptly to address the nation’s crisis, without specifying a precise timeframe. Rajoelina, who has been in power since 2018, stated that he had sought refuge out of concern for his safety following the uprising led by Randrianirina’s soldiers. He dismissed the military’s assumption of power as an unlawful coup attempt by a rebellious faction.
Madagascar has witnessed several coups and attempted coups since gaining independence from France in 1960, with persistent challenges related to poverty and corruption. The country’s economic struggles are evident, with GDP per capita decreasing significantly over the years. The African Union announced the suspension of Madagascar from its bodies until constitutional order is reinstated in the nation.
The recent youth uprising in Madagascar has been interpreted by some analysts as a response to governmental deficiencies, with criticism directed at the military intervention. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed concern over the situation in Madagascar but did not confirm any involvement in assisting Rajoelina in fleeing the country.
