Madagascar’s Colonel Randrianirina Set to Assume Presidency After Coup

Colonel Michael Randrianirina has announced plans to be sworn in as Madagascar’s new president following a military coup that removed President Andry Rajoelina from power. This development comes shortly after the African Union (AU) suspended Madagascar from its membership, citing the coup as a violation of constitutional norms. Rajoelina, who fled the country over the weekend, was impeached by lawmakers but has rejected the military’s actions, labeling them unconstitutional.

In a press briefing held on October 15 in Antananarivo, Randrianirina stated that the military has taken control of state institutions, with the exception of the National Assembly. He confirmed that he would soon be sworn in, indicating, “We took responsibility yesterday.” According to two sources close to the colonel, he is expected to take the oath of office within days, following an invitation from the High Constitutional Court to assume the presidency.

African Union’s Response to the Coup

The AU’s suspension of Madagascar from its 55-member bloc reflects the organization’s strong stance against unconstitutional power transitions. An AU spokesperson confirmed the immediate suspension, which could lead to significant international isolation for the new leadership. At a meeting earlier on the same day, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf emphasized the importance of law over force, stating, “The rule of law must prevail over the rule of force. Our approach is grounded in law and dialogue.”

Randrianirina has indicated that a military-led committee will govern alongside a transitional administration for up to two years, with plans for new elections to be held afterward. This governance structure aims to stabilize the country after weeks of protests led by young activists demanding Rajoelina’s resignation.

Background and Political Context

The political landscape in Madagascar has been fraught with instability. Randrianirina, who previously commanded the elite CAPSAT army unit, played a key role in bringing Rajoelina to power during a coup in 2009. However, he publicly severed ties with the president just last week, advocating for restraint among soldiers during protests. Rajoelina, now 51, fled Madagascar aboard a French military aircraft on October 15, citing threats to his life and is reportedly in Dubai.

Rajoelina’s rise to political prominence came after he led youth protests that resulted in the ousting of the previous government, making him the world’s youngest head of state at 34. Despite his initial popularity, his tenure has been marked by unfulfilled promises to combat corruption and improve living conditions for the population.

Madagascar faces dire economic challenges. With a population of approximately 30 million, about three-quarters of the citizens live in poverty. The World Bank has reported a significant decline in the nation’s GDP per capita, which fell by 45 percent from independence in 1960 to 2020. The recent coup and the ensuing political turmoil could exacerbate these economic and social crises, further complicating the nation’s recovery efforts.

As the situation develops, the international community will be watching closely to see how Randrianirina’s leadership evolves and what it means for Madagascar’s future prospects.