标签： Africa

The African Union (AU) has extended its congratulations to Patrick Herminie, the newly elected president of Seychelles, following his victory in the presidential runoff election on October 12, 2025. The AU has pledged its full support to the incoming administration, emphasizing its commitment to collaborating on the objectives outlined in Agenda 2063, the continent’s strategic framework for socio-economic transformation.

Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, praised the citizens of Seychelles for their ‘peaceful and orderly participation’ in what he termed a ‘credible democratic process.’ In a statement released on Sunday, Youssouf highlighted the election as a testament to Seychelles’ dedication to the rule of law and democratic governance. He also lauded the outgoing president, Wavel Ramkalawan, and other candidates for their adherence to the principles of peaceful political competition.

Official results from the Seychelles Electoral Commission revealed that Herminie, leader of the United Seychelles party, secured 52.7 percent of the votes, narrowly defeating incumbent Ramkalawan, who received 47.3 percent. The election proceeded to a second round after neither candidate achieved an outright majority in the initial ballot held two weeks prior.

In his victory speech, Herminie expressed his commitment to unifying the nation, stating, ‘We are turning a new page for all Seychellois. I will be the president of all Seychellois, ending divisions and ensuring fairness and opportunity for everyone.’ His election marks a significant moment in Seychelles’ political landscape, signaling a shift towards inclusive governance and renewed regional collaboration under the AU’s guidance.

Madagascar has plunged into political chaos as the military seized control from the civilian government on Tuesday, following weeks of escalating protests led by young citizens. President Andry Rajoelina, who fled the country for his safety, was ousted amid widespread dissatisfaction with chronic power and water shortages, persistent poverty, and alleged government corruption. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, commander of the elite CAPSAT military unit, announced the takeover, declaring, ‘We are taking power,’ as demonstrators celebrated alongside soldiers in the capital, Antananarivo. Rajoelina’s office condemned the coup as a ‘serious breach of the rule of law,’ but the military’s decisive action has shifted the balance of power. The protests, spearheaded by a group calling itself ‘Gen Z Madagascar,’ were inspired by recent youth uprisings in Nepal and Sri Lanka. The movement gained momentum when CAPSAT troops joined the demonstrators last weekend, clashing with security forces loyal to Rajoelina. The president’s attempts to reassert authority, including dissolving parliament, were ignored as lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to impeach him. The military has since announced plans to form a council to appoint a prime minister and establish a civilian government. Meanwhile, reports suggest France aided Rajoelina’s escape, raising questions about its involvement in the crisis. The former French colony, known for its biodiversity and vanilla production, continues to grapple with political instability and poverty, a legacy of its colonial past.

In a dramatic turn of events, Madagascar’s elite military unit, CAPSAT, has declared the seizure of power from President Andry Rajoelina, following weeks of escalating youth-led protests. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, head of CAPSAT, announced the military’s intention to form a transitional government and hold elections within two years. Key democratic institutions, including the electoral commission, have been suspended. Randrianirina emphasized the importance of incorporating the demands of the Gen Z protesters, stating, ‘The movement was created in the streets, so we have to respect their demands.’ The apparent ousting of Rajoelina has been met with widespread celebration in the capital, Antananarivo, where thousands have taken to the streets waving flags and cheering. However, the constitutional court has recognized Randrianirina as the new leader, while the president’s office has denounced the move as an ‘attempted coup d’etat,’ asserting that Rajoelina remains in charge. Rajoelina’s current whereabouts are unknown, though he claims to be in a ‘safe place’ following an alleged assassination attempt by ‘military personnel and politicians,’ which CAPSAT denies. Unconfirmed reports suggest Rajoelina may have fled the country aboard a French military aircraft. The unrest began over two weeks ago, driven by youth-led protests against chronic water and power shortages, which quickly escalated to reflect broader dissatisfaction with Rajoelina’s government over issues such as high unemployment, corruption, and the cost-of-living crisis. Clashes between protesters and security forces have resulted in at least 22 deaths and over 100 injuries, according to the UN, though the Malagasy government disputes these figures. CAPSAT, which initially supported Rajoelina’s rise to power in 2009, joined the protesters on Saturday. Rajoelina, once hailed as a fresh start for Madagascar, has faced mounting criticism over allegations of cronyism and corruption. Despite efforts to dissolve the national assembly, lawmakers overwhelmingly voted to impeach him. The African Union has condemned military interference in Madagascar’s political affairs, while French President Emmanuel Macron expressed deep concern over the situation. Madagascar, one of the world’s poorest nations, continues to grapple with political instability and economic hardship.