Full Breakdown
Madagascar's Military Coup: Colonel Michael Randrianirina Set to Assume Presidency
10/17/2025, 2:54:24 AM
Overview of the Coup
On October 15, 2025, Colonel Michael Randrianirina announced that he would soon be sworn in as the president of Madagascar following a military coup that ousted President Andry Rajoelina. This coup came after weeks of protests led by youth groups known as "Gen Z Madagascar," demanding Rajoelina's resignation due to widespread dissatisfaction with his administration, which has been marked by poverty and corruption. Rajoelina, who fled the country on October 12, was impeached by lawmakers shortly thereafter.
Key Developments
Randrianirina, a former commander of the elite CAPSAT military unit, stated that the military had dissolved all state institutions except for the National Assembly. He indicated that a military-led committee would govern alongside a transitional government for up to two years before new elections are held. The High Constitutional Court has invited him to assume the presidency, with the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for October 17.
The African Union (AU) responded to the coup by suspending Madagascar from its activities, emphasizing the need for the restoration of civilian governance. AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf stated, "The rule of law must prevail over the rule of force," reflecting the bloc's condemnation of the military takeover.
Background and Context
Rajoelina first came to power in a military-backed coup in 2009 and was later elected president in 2018. His administration faced significant challenges, including high poverty rates—approximately 75% of Madagascar's population lives in poverty—and chronic issues such as water and electricity shortages. The recent protests were sparked by these ongoing grievances, culminating in a significant shift when Randrianirina and his troops sided with demonstrators demanding Rajoelina's resignation.
Criticism and Opposition
Rajoelina has condemned the coup as unconstitutional and has vowed not to step down, despite the military's claims of acting on behalf of the people. His office has described the constitutional court's decision to appoint Randrianirina as riddled with procedural irregularities. Critics argue that the military's intervention, while initially welcomed by some protesters, risks further destabilizing the country.
Official Statements and Responses
Randrianirina has asserted that the military's actions were necessary to restore stability, stating, "We took responsibility yesterday because there is nothing left in the country, no president, no government." He has promised to appoint a new prime minister soon to address the ongoing crisis. Meanwhile, Rajoelina's government has disputed the UN's report of 22 deaths during the protests, claiming the figures are exaggerated.
What's Next?
As Madagascar transitions to military rule, the international community is closely monitoring the situation. Randrianirina has indicated that behind-the-scenes negotiations will take place, and he has expressed a commitment to restoring civilian governance within two years. The AU's suspension of Madagascar may further isolate the new leadership, complicating efforts to stabilize the nation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We will be sworn in soon,” — Colonel Michael Randrianirina
- “the rule of law must prevail over the rule of force.” — Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, AU Commission Chairperson
- “We had to take responsibility yesterday because there is nothing left in the country, no president, no president in the senate, no government,” — Colonel Michael Randrianirina
This unfolding situation in Madagascar highlights the complexities of military interventions in political crises, particularly in nations with a history of coups and political instability.
