How events unfolded in Madagascar
The military has taken control of Madagascar, resulting in the ousting of President Andry Rajoelina, who has since left the country.
The military has taken control of Madagascar, resulting in the ousting of President Andry Rajoelina, who has since left the country.
The following is a summary of the key events leading up to the recent developments in Madagascar, an island nation in the Indian Ocean.
Tue, Sep 25, 2023: Youth Protests Begin
Large-scale protests erupted among the youth, driven by dissatisfaction with persistent water and electricity shortages. Authorities responded with tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowds. The protests, organized under the banner "Gen Z Madagascar," quickly gained traction, with their Facebook page accumulating over 100,000 followers. A nighttime curfew was subsequently enforced in Antananarivo and other major cities.
Sat, Sep 29, 2023: Government Dissolved
President Andry Rajoelina dismissed the prime minister and dissolved the government in an attempt to quell the unrest. Despite these actions, protests expanded to address issues such as the high cost of living, limited professional opportunities, and corruption within the political elite. The United Nations reported that at least 22 individuals were killed in the initial days of the protests, attributing the violence to heavy-handed measures by security forces.
Sun, Oct 8, 2023: Protesters Reject Dialogue
President Rajoelina's invitation for dialogue was rejected by protest leaders, who refused to engage with a government they accused of violence. The protesters continued to demand that demonstrations persist.
The military has taken control of Madagascar, resulting in the ousting of President Andry Rajoelina, who has since left the country.
An elite military unit defected and joined the anti-government protests, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing unrest. Under the leadership of Colonel Michael Randrianirina , the soldiers escorted protesters to a key square in downtown Antananarivo. Colonel Randrianirina announced that his forces would no longer suppress the protests and called for President Rajoelina's resignation.
Thu, Oct 12, 2023: Coup Leadership Established
Colonel Randrianirina declared himself the leader of the coup and assumed control over Madagascar's armed forces. The appointment of a new army general by Randrianirina was acknowledged by the Minister of Defense, indicating his newfound authority. President Rajoelina, whose location remains undisclosed, issued a statement condemning what he termed an illegal power grab.
Fri, Oct 13, 2023: President Addresses Nation
President Rajoelina addressed the public via social media, revealing that he had fled the country due to a perceived threat to his life. He urged adherence to the Constitution and maintained his position as the legitimate leader, although his whereabouts were not disclosed.
Sat, Oct 14, 2023: Military Takes Control
Rajoelina, from an undisclosed location, issued a decree to dissolve parliament, aiming to circumvent impeachment proceedings. Despite this, lawmakers proceeded to vote for his removal. Following the vote, Colonel Randrianirina appeared publicly to announce the military's assumption of power, stating that a military council would govern for at least 18 months before elections are held.
Sun, Oct 15, 2023: Colonel Randrianirina Assumes Presidency
Colonel Randrianirina accepted the position of president and announced plans for an official swearing-in before the nation's highest court, scheduled for the following Friday.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
