Madagascar Military Seizes Power, Ousting President Rajoelina
Antananarivo, Madagascar – The military unit known as CAPSAT has taken control of Madagascar, ousting President Andry Rajoelina following days of protests and a military mutiny, a development that threatens to destabilize the Indian Ocean island nation.
The shift in power began yesterday when troops from the Personnel Administration and Technical and Administrative Services Corps (CAPSAT) left their barracks and joined youth-led demonstrations in the capital, Antananarivo, demanding Rajoelina’s resignation. Soldiers escorted protesters and arrived in the city with crowds clinging to their vehicles. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who led the mutiny, is now in power. CAPSAT, while not a frontline combat unit, is strategically located near Antananarivo and possesses significant logistical and arms resources, giving it considerable influence.
This is not the first time CAPSAT has played a pivotal role in a change of government; in 2009, a mutiny originating from the same camp was instrumental in the removal of then-President Marc Ravalomanana and the subsequent rise of Rajoelina. The current unrest was sparked by accusations that Rajoelina’s government used excessive force against protesters. Reports indicate clashes between CAPSAT soldiers and the paramilitary gendarmes, who previously formed the core of Rajoelina’s support, with CAPSAT ultimately announcing control over all armed forces on Sunday. For more on Madagascar’s political history, see Britannica’s entry on the country.
The African Union has yet to issue a formal statement, but regional observers are closely monitoring the situation. This power grab raises concerns about the future of democratic governance in Madagascar, a nation already grappling with economic challenges and political instability. The United Nations UN Country Team in Madagascar is prepared to offer assistance if requested.
Officials from the newly established military government have stated they will announce a timeline for a return to civilian rule in the coming days.
