Madagascar at a Crossroads: Military Takeover Deepens Political Crisis

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

Madagascar was plunged into political uncertainty after its military announced it had seized control of the country, following days of mass protests and deepening unrest.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who led the mutiny alongside a coalition of youth-led demonstrators, declared the military takeover in a national radio broadcast, saying: “We have taken the power.”

The dramatic development came shortly after President Andry Rajoelina fled the country amid mounting public anger and widespread demonstrations demanding his resignation. The 51-year-old leader reportedly departed aboard a French military jet but has so far refused to formally step down from office.

Tensions reached a breaking point earlier in the week when Rajoelina attempted to dissolve the National Assembly by decree — a move immediately denounced by opposition leaders as unconstitutional. In swift retaliation, parliament convened an emergency session and voted overwhelmingly to impeach him, passing the motion with 130 votes in favour and just one abstention, citing “desertion of duty” following his flight from the country.

The presidency has yet to issue an official response to Colonel Randrianirina’s declaration, though government officials previously dismissed the parliamentary session as “null and void.” Rajoelina has maintained that his departure was a temporary measure taken for his personal safety amid alleged threats to his life.

The current situation has thrown the Indian Ocean nation into deep uncertainty, with no clear indication of how the military intends to govern or whether elections will be called.

Political observers warn that the crisis could further destabilise Madagascar’s fragile democracy and strain its international relations. The African Union and neighbouring countries are expected to issue statements in the coming days as global attention turns to the unfolding events in Antananarivo.

For now, Madagascar remains at a crossroads — torn between a restless population demanding change and a military establishment now holding the reins of power.