- Madagascar’s military seizes power, suspending the constitution.
- President Rajoelina flees amid protests and army defections.
- Citizens celebrate as soldiers promise civilian transition soon.
An elite military unit known as CAPSAT has announced that it has seized power in Madagascar, suspending the country’s constitution and taking control of the government. The development follows weeks of political unrest and protests demanding the resignation of President Andry Rajoelina.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that
The commander of CAPSAT, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, made the announcement on Tuesday outside the presidential palace, declaring that the military had assumed authority. His statement came shortly after lawmakers voted to impeach President Rajoelina amid growing public anger over economic hardship and allegations of corruption.
Reports indicate that soldiers joined anti-government demonstrators over the weekend, signaling a shift in loyalty that ultimately led to the takeover. President Rajoelina, who had not been seen in public since the previous Wednesday, was reported to have fled the country on Sunday as unrest intensified. Opposition leader Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko told Reuters that Rajoelina’s departure came after several army units defected to the protesters.
The presidency had earlier announced that Rajoelina would address the nation at 17:30 GMT on Monday, but the speech was postponed following threats from soldiers to seize control of state television. With tensions escalating rapidly, the military stepped in to take control of government institutions.
Colonel Randrianirina said the new governing structure would be a committee made up of officers from the army, gendarmerie, and national police, with plans to include senior civilian advisers later. “It is this committee that will carry out the work of the presidency,” he said, adding that a civilian government would be established after a transitional period. “We have taken power,” he confirmed to AFP.
Shortly after the announcement, soldiers from the elite unit were seen driving through the capital in armored Humvees and pick-up trucks, heading back to their base where hundreds of troops assembled in formation to receive them. The show of force appeared organized and deliberate, signaling the military’s firm control of the capital.
Crowds of citizens gathered along the streets, cheering and waving as the military convoy passed. Some residents followed behind in vehicles, honking horns and celebrating what they described as a “new beginning” for Madagascar. The atmosphere in the capital remained tense but largely jubilant, as many hoped the military takeover would bring stability after weeks of political chaos.
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