Madagascar is embroiled in a deepening political crisis as President Andry Rajoelina dissolved the National Assembly on Tuesday, a move that has escalated tensions in the Indian Ocean nation. The decision came amid a military rebellion and widespread anti-government protests, which forced Rajoelina to flee the country and seek refuge in an undisclosed location. In a statement released on the presidency’s Facebook page, Rajoelina declared the immediate dissolution of the lower house of parliament, effectively halting ongoing impeachment proceedings against him. The president’s abrupt departure followed an apparent coup attempt by an elite military unit, CAPSAT, which joined youth-led protests demanding his resignation. Rajoelina, in a late-night social media address on Monday, claimed he had relocated to a “safe place” due to fears for his life but did not disclose his whereabouts. This latest development marks the most severe political turmoil since 2009, when Rajoelina first assumed power following a military-backed coup. The current crisis stems from weeks of protests led by Gen Z groups, who have voiced grievances over chronic water and electricity shortages, widespread poverty, and alleged government corruption. Inspired by similar movements in Nepal and Sri Lanka, the protesters have called for systemic change. Rajoelina, who was reelected in 2023 amid an opposition boycott, has urged for dialogue and constitutional adherence, resisting calls for his resignation. Meanwhile, the military has undergone leadership changes, with new heads appointed for the armed forces and gendarmerie. The situation remains volatile as Madagascar grapples with its most significant political upheaval in over a decade.
Madagascar’s president, hiding in an unknown location, dissolves parliament to deepen crisis
