Madagascar Military Seizes Power, Ousts President Rajoelina

Madagascar Military Seizes Power, Ousts President Rajoelina

An elite military unit in Madagascar has declared it has taken control of the country, removing President Andry Rajoelina from power. The nation’s constitutional court has endorsed Colonel Michael Randrianirina as interim leader, though Rajoelina’s office insists he remains president.

Military Declares Takeover Amid Rising Political Tension

In a dramatic turn of events, an elite military unit in Madagascar has announced that it has seized control of the government, effectively ousting President Andry Rajoelina.

The constitutional court swiftly recognized the unit’s commander, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, as the new head of state — a move that marks the island nation’s most serious political upheaval in years.

Rajoelina’s office, however, has rejected the declaration, insisting he remains the legitimate president. Government spokespersons labeled the takeover an “illegal military coup” and urged calm among citizens.

Confusion Over President Rajoelina’s Whereabouts

Adding to the uncertainty, Rajoelina’s current location remains unknown. Local media and diplomatic sources have offered conflicting reports — some claiming he fled Madagascar aboard a French military aircraft, while others suggest he is in a “safe location” following what he described as an assassination attempt.

The president reportedly told close allies that he narrowly escaped a planned attack targeting his convoy earlier this week. The situation has sparked widespread speculation over whether Rajoelina will attempt to rally loyal military forces or seek asylum abroad.

Political Background and Power Struggles

Madagascar has faced years of political instability since Rajoelina first rose to prominence after leading a coup in 2009. Although later elected through democratic processes, his rule has been marred by allegations of corruption, economic stagnation, and opposition crackdowns.

Earlier this week, lawmakers voted to impeach Rajoelina, accusing him of “gross misconduct” and “endangering national unity.” The president dismissed the vote as “null and void,” calling it a politically motivated attempt to undermine his authority.

Observers say the impeachment may have deepened divisions between Rajoelina’s government and the military, paving the way for the current takeover.

International Reactions and Calls for Calm

The African Union, the United Nations, and France have expressed concern over the unfolding situation, urging restraint and dialogue.
A spokesperson for the UN’s Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs said, “We are closely monitoring developments in Madagascar and call on all actors to uphold constitutional order and avoid violence.”

Neighboring nations, including Mozambique and Mauritius, have also called for calm, warning that instability in Madagascar could have regional implications.

Analysis: A Familiar Crisis for Madagascar

Political analysts say the current crisis bears striking similarities to Rajoelina’s own rise to power in 2009 when he led protests that forced then-President Marc Ravalomanana to step down.

“This is déjà vu for Madagascar,” said one political observer in Antananarivo. “Rajoelina came to power through a coup and now seems to be losing it the same way.”

If the military consolidates control, international recognition will be a key challenge. Past coups in Madagascar led to diplomatic isolation and the suspension of foreign aid — outcomes that could again destabilize the fragile economy.

Uncertain Road Ahead

As of Wednesday, Madagascar’s capital remains tense but largely calm, with soldiers patrolling government buildings and major roads.

Whether Colonel Randrianirina can maintain order or whether Rajoelina will attempt a political comeback remains to be seen. For now, the country waits anxiously for clarity in yet another chapter of its turbulent political history.