Madagascar’s political landscape has been thrown into disarray following the ousting of former President Andry Rajoelina in a military coup last week. The new regime, led by Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, has taken the unprecedented step of revoking Rajoelina’s Malagasy citizenship, citing local laws that mandate the loss of nationality for individuals who acquire foreign citizenship. Rajoelina, 51, obtained French citizenship a decade ago, a move that had previously sparked controversy during the 2023 presidential election, which he ultimately won despite calls for his disqualification. The former president fled the country after weeks of escalating protests over chronic power and water shortages, which culminated in a military takeover led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina. Rajoelina has since gone into hiding, citing concerns for his safety, and his current whereabouts remain unknown. The protests, initially organized by the youth movement Gen Z Mada and inspired by similar anti-government demonstrations in Nepal, intensified after Rajoelina’s government responded with violence. Despite sacking his energy minister and later his entire government, Rajoelina’s efforts to quell the unrest proved futile. Protesters had hoped for his resignation to facilitate a democratic transition, but his refusal to step down led to the military’s intervention. Colonel Randrianirina has now been sworn in as the new leader, promising to hold elections within two years.