The United Nations has strongly denounced the recent military coup in Madagascar, as Colonel Michael Randrianirina is poised to be sworn in as the nation’s president just days after leading the armed forces’ takeover. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, through his spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, condemned the unconstitutional shift in power, urging a swift return to constitutional order and the rule of law. Randrianirina, who signed a statement as the president of the “refounded” republic, is scheduled to take office at a ceremony at the High Constitutional Court on Friday. Ousted President Andry Rajoelina fled the country following the rebellion, citing threats to his life, and his current location remains undisclosed. The African Union has suspended Madagascar’s membership, expressing total rejection of the coup. The military takeover followed three weeks of intense anti-government protests, primarily led by young citizens frustrated with systemic corruption, poverty, and lack of opportunities. The movement, dubbed “Gen Z Madagascar,” mirrors youth-led uprisings in Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Randrianirina, alongside his elite CAPSAT unit, joined the protests last weekend, leading to widespread military defections against Rajoelina. The colonel announced that a military council would govern the country for up to two years before new elections are held. Madagascar, a nation of 30 million, has faced persistent challenges, including poverty, drought, and political instability since gaining independence from France in 1960. This marks the latest in a series of coups, including the 2009 military takeover that initially brought Rajoelina to power.
UN condemns military takeover in Madagascar as coup leader to be quickly sworn in as president
