Madagascar President Abruptly Departs Country Amid Loss of Key Military Support

Madagascar President Fled Country After Losing Support of Key Army Unit ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar - Andry Rajoelina, the president of Madagascar, fled the country on a French military aircraft on Monday, hours before he was scheduled to address the nation. According to French state radio RFI, the president had been flown out of the capital, Antananarivo, after a deal with President Emmanuel Macron. The decision to leave came as Rajoelina's support among key army units began to wane. The Elite Capsat unit, which played a significant role in his rise to presidency in 2023, joined the growing protests against corruption and government mismanagement. "We cannot continue to tolerate the corruption and nepotism that has plagued our country," said Captain Rivo Rakotoarisoa, a leader of the Elite Capsat unit. "The people demand change, and we will not stand in their way." Rajoelina's departure marks a significant shift in Madagascar's politics. The 51-year-old president was first elected in 2009 but lost power in 2014. He returned to office in 2023, but his presidency has been marred by controversy and allegations of corruption. Background context shows that Rajoelina's relationship with the Elite Capsat unit had been strained for months. The unit, which is responsible for maintaining order and security in the capital, had grown increasingly frustrated with the president's handling of the country's economic crisis. "We were once loyal to President Rajoelina, but his failure to address our concerns has left us no choice but to join the protests," said Captain Rakotoarisoa. Other perspectives on Rajoelina's departure come from opposition leaders who have long criticized the president's policies. "This is a victory for the people of Madagascar," said Soatiana Rajaoferinandriana, leader of the opposition party. "We will continue to push for reforms and ensure that those responsible for corruption are held accountable." The current status of Rajoelina's whereabouts remains unclear. According to RFI, he may have headed for Dubai, but officials in Madagascar have not confirmed this information. As the situation continues to unfold, analysts predict a period of uncertainty for Madagascar. "Rajoelina's departure creates a power vacuum that could lead to further instability," said Dr. Jean-Luc Racine, a political analyst at the University of Antananarivo. "The international community must work closely with local stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition and address the underlying issues that have led to this crisis." *Reporting by Theguardian.*