Madagascar's Military Takes Charge Amidst Protests

Protesters in Madagascar, fueled by Gen Z, had taken to the streets against power and water shortages, eventually leading to the impeachment of President Andry Rajoelina. The military, led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina of the CAPSAT unit, has announced its takeover, dissolving institutions except for the lower house of parliament. The military aims to set up a committee to carry out presidential duties, followed by the formation of a civilian government.

Key Takeaways:

• The military, led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina, has taken control of Madagascar, dissolving institutions except for the lower house of parliament.
• The CAPSAT unit played a pivotal role in the 2009 coup that brought President Andry Rajoelina to power.
• Protests against Rajoelina began on September 25 and peaked over the weekend, with soldiers and security forces joining the protesters.
• A committee made up of military officers, paramilitary gendarmerie, and national police will carry out presidential duties, potentially including senior civilian advisers.
• A civilian government will be established within a few days, with a prime minister to be appointed quickly.
• The presidency has condemned the military takeover as an "attempted coup," with President Rajoelina remaining in office according to the National Assembly.

Statistics:

• 130 members of parliament voted in favor of impeaching President Rajoelina on Tuesday, above the two-thirds constitutional threshold.
• The military suspended the country's Senate, high constitutional court, electoral body, and other state institutions, leaving the National Assembly as the only functioning legislative body.
• The protests escalated over the weekend, with soldiers and security forces joining the protesters.

Sources:

• Deutsche Welle
• Reuters news agency
• AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com)