Madagascar Swears In New President Following Military Takeover
Colonel Michael Randrianirina was sworn in as Madagascar's new president after a military takeover. The UN condemned this unconstitutional change, following former President Rajoelina's flight.
Overview
- Colonel Michael Randrianirina was sworn in as Madagascar's new president, formally appointed by the High Constitutional Court after a military takeover.
- The military takeover followed three weeks of anti-government protests, which Randrianirina joined, ultimately turning against former President Rajoelina.
- Former President Andry Rajoelina fled into exile after being impeached for desertion of duty, paving the way for the new leadership.
- The United Nations has strongly condemned Madagascar's recent military takeover, labeling it an unconstitutional change of government.
- The political upheaval occurs amidst high poverty rates in Madagascar, impacting approximately 75% of the population.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame this story as an illegitimate military takeover, consistently using strong, evaluative language like "coup" and "seized power." They emphasize international condemnation from the UN and African Union, portraying the event as an unconstitutional power grab. While acknowledging popular support and the leader's rationale, the narrative prioritizes the illegitimacy of the transition.
"Randrianirina has said Madagascar will be run by a military council with him as president for between 18 months and two years before any new elections, meaning the young people who inspired the uprising against Rajoelina may have a long wait before they are able to choose their new leader."
Associated PressArticles (4)
FAQ
The military takeover in Madagascar was triggered by three weeks of protests over power and water outages, widespread poverty affecting about 75% of the population, and youth dissatisfaction with the government led by President Andry Rajoelina. The CAPSAT unit of the Madagascar Armed Forces broke ranks to support protesters, which led to the military seizure of the capital and the ousting of Rajoelina.
Colonel Michael Randrianirina is the military officer who was sworn in as Madagascar's new president following the military takeover. He was formally appointed by the High Constitutional Court after the mutiny and had participated in the protests before turning against former President Andry Rajoelina.
The United Nations strongly condemned the military takeover in Madagascar, labeling it an unconstitutional change of government, reflecting international disapproval of the abrupt power shift.
Former President Andry Rajoelina fled Madagascar in disputed circumstances shortly after the military mutiny and was impeached by the National Assembly for desertion of duty. He ordered the dissolution of the National Assembly from exile, but this was ignored as the assembly proceeded to dismiss him.
The protests were significantly driven by youth dissatisfaction, particularly Generation Z, who used social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok to mobilize and spread awareness about issues like utility outages, poverty, and corruption, culminating in widespread nationwide demonstrations.
History
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