Madagascar is in turmoil again, as a military leader prepares to be sworn in, prompting the African Union to take swift action. The island nation, already grappling with deep-seated political issues, is now facing its worst upheaval in years. But what led to this sudden shift, and what does it mean for the future of Madagascar?
On Wednesday, the military announced that the new military ruler would be sworn in as president on Friday. This announcement came hot on the heels of the African Union's decision to suspend Madagascar, following a coup that ousted President Andry Rajoelina. The situation escalated rapidly after the elite Capsat army unit seized power on Tuesday, just after parliament voted to impeach Rajoelina. Reports suggest Rajoelina may have already left the country as street protests intensified.
This marks another instance of military control in a former French colony since 2020, following similar events in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Gabon, and Guinea.
Capsat commander Col Michael Randrianirina, confirmed as president by the top court, has stated that the transition to civilian leadership will take less than two years and will involve restructuring key institutions. He insists that the military's actions were not a coup but a necessary intervention to prevent the country's collapse. He has also promised elections within 18 to 24 months and is currently consulting on appointing a prime minister and forming a new government. This transition will be overseen by a committee of officers from the army, gendarmerie, and police.
On October 17, Randrianirina will be sworn in as president during a solemn hearing of the high constitutional court. Randrianirina has been a vocal critic of Rajoelina's administration and was reportedly imprisoned for several months in 2023 for allegedly plotting a coup.
The international community has expressed its concerns. The African Union has suspended Madagascar, and the UN has voiced its deep concern over the unconstitutional change of power. France emphasized the importance of upholding democracy, fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law. Other nations, like Germany and Russia, have called for caution and restraint. The regional SADC grouping, of which Rajoelina was the rotating president, has also expressed concern.
But here's where it gets controversial... The capital, Antananarivo, remained calm, but uncertainty looms. A youth-led movement, Gen Z, initiated protests over water and energy shortages, which later evolved into broader discontent with the political elite. This group has welcomed Randrianirina's intervention, reiterating their calls for systemic change.
"We’re worried about what comes next, but we’re savouring this first victory that gave us hope," said Fenitra Razafindramanga, captain of Madagascar’s national rugby team. In the northern city of Antsiranana, an entrepreneur, Muriella, expressed relief at Rajoelina's removal, hoping his successor would learn from his mistakes.
And this is the part most people miss... The situation in Madagascar is complex, with a history of political instability and economic challenges. While the military's intervention may be seen as a solution by some, it raises questions about the future of democracy and governance.
What do you think? Is this a necessary step to stabilize the country, or does it set a dangerous precedent? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
