Madagascar's President Goes into Hiding as Elite Military Unit Asserts Control

Strategic Insights -

Madagascar is grappling with a severe political crisis as President Andry Rajoelina has gone into hiding and an elite military unit, CAPSAT, has taken control of the country. The move comes as hundreds of protesters demand the government's resignation due to widespread corruption, poor living standards, and frequent power and water shortages. The protests have been fueled by the frustrations of the youth, with many of them unable to find employment or education opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The crisis in Madagascar is characterized by widespread protests, with hundreds of citizens demanding the government's resignation due to corruption, poor living standards, and power shortages.
  • President Andry Rajoelina has gone into hiding, citing a "plot to attempt his life," and has attempted to dissolve the National Assembly, but the move has been met with resistance.
  • The elite military unit, CAPSAT, has asserted control of the country, suspending the Senate, high constitutional court, electoral body, and other state institutions.
  • The unit has appointed new military and police chiefs and has set up a committee to carry out the work of the presidency.
  • The African Union has urged restraint, warning soldiers to "refrain from meddling" in Madagascar's political affairs.
  • The protests in Madagascar are similar to those youth-led movements that toppled governments in Bangladesh and Nepal, with many young people frustrated by limited opportunities and poor living standards.

Statistics:

  • A third of people aged 15 to 24 in Nepal were not in employment, education, or training last year (International Labour Organization).
  • Figures for Bangladesh and Indonesia were 30% and 21%, respectively (International Labour Organization).
  • In Madagascar, numbers are even lower, with many young people working in informal jobs without stability.
  • The National Assembly voted overwhelmingly (130-0) to impeach President Rajoelina last week.

Sources:

  • International Labour Organization
  • TimesofIndia.com