Madagascar witnessed a swift transfer of power as an army colonel orchestrated a military coup, leading to the ousting of the president who fled the country into hiding. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, the leader of an elite army unit, was inaugurated as the new president after taking the oath of office at the nation’s High Constitutional Court in the presence of its judges.
The military takeover, following weeks of anti-government protests primarily led by young demonstrators, resulted in Madagascar’s suspension from the African Union. President Andry Rajoelina left the country citing safety concerns amid the rebellion by soldiers loyal to Randrianirina, with reports suggesting he escaped on a French military aircraft.
Randrianirina, aged around 50 or 51, transitioned from military attire to formal wear for the swearing-in ceremony attended by military officials, civilian dignitaries, and foreign envoys. Having previously faced imprisonment for an attempted mutiny, the colonel rose to prominence within a short span, vowing to lead Madagascar through a transitional period under a military council, delaying new elections for up to two years.
Madagascar, plagued by high poverty rates affecting a significant portion of its population, has a history of political turmoil and corruption since gaining independence in 1960. Rajoelina, who assumed power after a military-backed coup in 2009, faced impeachment by parliament just before Randrianirina declared the military’s assumption of control.
Despite concerns raised by international bodies such as the United Nations and the African Union over the unconstitutional change of government, little immediate action has been taken by foreign nations. Randrianirina, emphasizing a commitment to restoring the country’s stability and addressing social issues, has received support from the populace, with minimal reports of violence following the transition of power.