Military Takes Power in Madagascar Amidst Youth-Led Protests

Strategic Insights -

Youth-led protests in Madagascar demanding the resignation of President Andry Rajoelina escalated into a constitutional crisis, prompting the military to take power after a vote to impeach him by lawmakers. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, a commander in the elite CAPSAT army unit, declared the military's takeover on national radio, stating that all institutions except the lower house of parliament would be suspended. A transitional government, led by the military, will rule the country for up to two years before organizing new elections.

Key Takeaways:

  • The military has taken power in Madagascar after President Andry Rajoelina was impeached by lawmakers, citing his incompatibility with presidential duties.
  • Colonel Michael Randrianirina announced the military's takeover on national radio, stating that all institutions except the lower house of parliament would be suspended.
  • A transitional government, led by the military, will rule the country for up to two years before organizing new elections.
  • The protests began over water and power shortages but escalated into demands for corruption and bad governance.
  • The military unit CAPSAT broke ranks with Rajoelina, refusing to fire on protesters and taking charge of the military.
  • Madagascar has a population of 30 million, with three-quarters living in poverty, and a GDP per capita that has plunged 45% since independence in 1960.
  • The country has seen widespread defections in the army, with several units refusing to follow Rajoelina's orders.
  • The opposition official, a military source, and a foreign diplomat reported that Rajoelina had fled the country on Sunday aboard a French military plane.
  • The protesters, primarily Gen Z, used social media and protests to mobilize and demand change, with thousands gathering in Antananarivo's 13 May Square.

Statistics:

  • The protests in Madagascar began on September 25 over water and power shortages.
  • The country's GDP per capita plunged 45% between its independence in 1960 and 2020.
  • Madagascar has a population of approximately 30 million, with three-quarters living in poverty.
  • The military has suspended several institutions, including the Senate, the High Constitutional Court, and the Independent National Electoral Commission.
  • The transitional government, led by the military, will rule the country for up to two years before organizing new elections.

Sources:

  • Reuters
  • "Madagascar's President Flee to SA, Army Takes Power" (source mentions in the original text)