Elite Military Unit Seizes Power in Madagascar Amidst Anti-Government Protests
In a dramatic turn of events, an elite military unit, CAPSAT, announced on Tuesday that it had taken control of the country, following weeks of youth-led protests against President Andry Rajoelina's government. According to Col Michael Randrianirina, the head of CAPSAT, the military has seized power and will form a new government, with elections scheduled to take place within two years.
The move comes after Madagascar's parliament impeached President Rajoelina on Monday, following his decision to go into hiding after attempts to kill him were foiled. In a Facebook Live video posted on Monday, Rajoelina claimed that he had gone to a "safe place" due to security concerns. However, the exact location of his whereabouts remains unknown.
According to eyewitnesses, troops and protesters have been celebrating in the streets outside the Presidential Palace in Antananarivo, the capital city. Col Randrianirina, speaking to reporters, said that the military would respect the demands of the Gen Z protestors who had driven the anti-government movement. "The movement was created in the streets, so we have to respect their demands," he stated.
The protests, which began several weeks ago, were sparked by widespread discontent with President Rajoelina's government and its handling of the country's economic and social issues. The impeachment vote in parliament was seen as a significant blow to the president's authority, paving the way for the military takeover.
According to analysts, the situation in Madagascar is complex and sensitive, with potential implications for regional stability. "The military's move is likely to be met with caution by the international community," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, an expert on African politics at a leading think tank. "However, it remains to be seen whether this will lead to a more stable or democratic government in Madagascar."
As the situation continues to unfold, the international community is closely watching developments in Madagascar. The United Nations and other regional organizations have issued statements calling for calm and urging all parties to respect human rights and the rule of law.
In the meantime, Col Randrianirina has suspended key democratic institutions, including the electoral commission, pending further review. The military's plans for a new government and elections within two years remain unclear, but one thing is certain: Madagascar is at a crossroads, with its future hanging in the balance.
Background
Madagascar, an island nation off the coast of East Africa, has been plagued by political instability and economic woes in recent years. President Rajoelina, who came to power in 2019, has faced mounting criticism from opposition groups and civil society organizations over his handling of the country's affairs.
The protests that led to the impeachment vote were sparked by a range of issues, including corruption, poverty, and lack of access to basic services such as healthcare and education. The youth-led movement, which has been driven by social media campaigns and street demonstrations, has demanded greater accountability from the government and an end to corruption.
Next Steps
As the situation in Madagascar continues to evolve, it remains to be seen what the future holds for the country. Will the military's takeover lead to a more stable or democratic government? Only time will tell. For now, one thing is certain: Madagascar is at a critical juncture, and its people are waiting with bated breath for the outcome.
Attribution:
BBC World: "Military says it has seized power in Madagascar after president moves to 'safe place'"
The Guardian: "Elite military unit says it has seized power in Madagascar"
Dr. Maria Rodriguez, expert on African politics at a leading think tank (interview)
This story was compiled from reports by BBC World and The Guardian.
