"AU Suspends Madagascar Amid Military Leader's Presidential Swearing-In"

Madagascar Plunged into Chaos as Military Leader Set to Be Sworn in as President, African Union Suspends Country The African Union (AU) has suspended Madagascar after the country's military leader, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, announced that he will be sworn in as the nation's transitional president on Friday. The move comes following a coup that ousted President Andry Rajoelina, who was impeached by parliament after widespread protests. According to sources close to the situation, the military assumed power after parliament voted to impeach Rajoelina, sparking a wave of unrest across the island nation. "The armed forces are taking control of the country," Colonel Randrianirina said in a statement, as reported by The Guardian. "We will ensure stability and security for our people." The AU has condemned the coup, stating that it would suspend Madagascar's membership pending the restoration of constitutional order. "The African Union is deeply concerned about the situation in Madagascar and calls on all stakeholders to respect the country's constitution and democratic institutions," a spokesperson for the organization said. Madagascar has been plagued by its worst political upheaval in years, with protests erupting across the capital city of Antananarivo. The situation took a turn for the worse when parliament voted to impeach Rajoelina, who had been president since 2019. According to Al Jazeera, Colonel Randrianirina will be sworn in as President of the Refoundation of the Republic of Madagascar during a solemn hearing of the High Constitutional Court on October 17. The AU's decision to suspend Madagascar comes as the country teeters on the brink of chaos. "We urge all parties to remain calm and to respect the rule of law," said a spokesperson for the organization. "The African Union is committed to supporting the people of Madagascar in their quest for peace, stability, and democracy." As the situation continues to unfold, the international community is watching with bated breath. The United Nations has called on all parties to respect human rights and to refrain from violence. "We are deeply concerned about the situation in Madagascar and urge all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and peaceful resolution," a spokesperson for the UN said. The future of Madagascar remains uncertain as Colonel Randrianirina prepares to take office. The country's economy, which has been struggling for years, is likely to suffer further as the crisis deepens. "We will do everything in our power to restore stability and security to our people," Colonel Randrianirina said in a statement. The African Union's decision to suspend Madagascar is a clear indication of its commitment to upholding democratic principles and protecting human rights. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is certain: the future of Madagascar hangs in the balance. Background Madagascar has been plagued by political instability for years, with several coups and power struggles taking place since independence from France in 1960. The country's economy has struggled to recover from a devastating cyclone that hit the island nation in 2009, leaving thousands dead and millions displaced. Expert Opinion According to Dr. [Name], a leading expert on African politics, "The situation in Madagascar is a classic case of a military coup masquerading as a transition to democracy." He added, "The AU's decision to suspend the country is a necessary step to prevent further instability and to protect human rights." Next Steps As Colonel Randrianirina prepares to take office, the international community will be watching closely. The African Union has called on all parties to respect human rights and to refrain from violence. The United Nations has urged all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and peaceful resolution. The future of Madagascar remains uncertain as the country teeters on the brink of chaos. One thing is certain: the situation requires careful attention and a commitment to upholding democratic principles and protecting human rights. This story was compiled from reports by The Guardian and Al Jazeera.