Key Points
- Colonel Michael Randrianirina says he will be sworn in “soon” after taking control in a coup.
- The African Union suspends Madagascar, calls on “rule of law” to prevail over force.
- Andry Rajoelina, who fled abroad, denounces the takeover as security forces abandon him.
“We accepted responsibility yesterday,” he stated.
Previously, two individuals with close ties to him informed Reuters that he would assume the presidency in the coming days.
During a meeting of the bloc, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, chair of the African Union Commission, emphasized, “The rule of law should triumph over the rule of force. Our strategy is based on legal principles and dialogue.”
He was once a commander in the prestigious CAPSAT army unit, which played a significant role in the 2009 coup that elevated Rajoelina to power. However, he recently distanced himself from Rajoelina, urging military personnel not to engage protesters with force.
The 51-year-old, who began his career as a DJ, ascended to power in 2009 following a coup supported by youth demonstrations, becoming the youngest head of state globally at just 34. Despite his rise, his pledges to enhance living standards and combat corruption remain unfulfilled.
Madagascar’s political turmoil
The 51-year-old former DJ rose to power in a coup in 2009 on the back of youth protests, becoming the world’s youngest head of state at 34. But promises to improve living standards and eradicate corruption were never fulfilled.
