In a dramatic turn of events, Madagascar’s military has assumed control of the African island nation following weeks of youth-led protests against President Andry Rajoelina’s government. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, the leader of the coup, declared in an exclusive interview with The Associated Press that he is “taking the position of president” and expects to be officially sworn in within days. The military plans to govern for up to two years before holding elections, aiming to stabilize the country amid widespread discontent. Randrianirina emphasized that the takeover was necessary to address the nation’s crises, citing the absence of leadership after Rajoelina fled the country fearing for his life. The coup leader claimed legitimacy through an order from Madagascar’s High Constitutional Court, though this has been disputed by Rajoelina’s office, which alleges judicial coercion. The African Union swiftly suspended Madagascar’s membership, condemning the unconstitutional change of power. Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern and urged stakeholders to work toward a peaceful resolution. The protests, led by youth groups known as “Gen Z Madagascar,” highlighted grievances over chronic water and electricity shortages, limited access to education, government corruption, and widespread poverty. While some demonstrators welcomed the military’s intervention, analysts warn that a military-led resolution undermines the civil society uprising. Madagascar, a nation of 30 million people and the world’s leading vanilla producer, has a history of political instability since gaining independence from France in 1960. The current crisis underscores the challenges of governance in a country grappling with systemic issues and a disillusioned youth population.
Leader of Madagascar’s military coup tells AP he is ‘taking the position of president’
