Antananarivo, Madagascar — Madagascar’s military ruler, Col Michael Randrianirina, will be sworn in as president on Friday, following a takeover that ousted President Andry Rajoelina. The African Union has suspended the island nation in response to the abrupt change in leadership.
The political crisis began Tuesday when the elite Capsat army unit assumed control just after parliament voted to impeach Rajoelina amid escalating street protests. Reports suggest Rajoelina fled the country as demonstrators took to the streets, demanding government accountability over issues including water and energy shortages.
Randrianirina, confirmed as president by the top court, said the transition to civilian rule would take between 18 and 24 months. He outlined plans to restructure key institutions, appoint a prime minister, and form a new government under a committee comprising army, gendarmerie, and police officers. “It wasn’t a coup, it was a case of taking responsibility because the country was on the brink of collapse,” he said.
The takeover has drawn global concern. The African Union suspended Madagascar with immediate effect, while the United Nations described the events as an “unconstitutional change of power.” France urged respect for democracy and the rule of law, Germany called for caution, and Russia appealed for restraint to prevent bloodshed. SADC, where Rajoelina held the rotating presidency, also expressed concern.
Despite the upheaval, life in Antananarivo remained largely calm late Wednesday. A concert took place at Place du 13 Mai square, previously the scene of clashes between protesters and security forces. Gen Z, the youth-led movement that began demonstrations on 25 September, welcomed Randrianirina’s intervention. “We’re worried about what comes next, but we’re savouring this first victory that gave us hope,” said Fenitra Razafindramanga, captain of Madagascar’s national rugby team.
In Antsiranana, residents expressed relief at the president’s departure. Entrepreneur Muriella said the change felt like “being released from prison” and urged the new leadership to learn from past mistakes.
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