Madagascar’s military unit CAPSAT has taken control after President Rajoelina reportedly fled, prompting the court to declare his seat vacant.
Madagascar plunged deeper into political crisis on Tuesday after a military unit declared control of the country shortly after the constitutional court announced that President Andry Rajoelina’s seat had been declared vacant.
The turmoil escalated after Rajoelina reportedly fled the country on Sunday amid weeks of youth-led protests and army defections. Before leaving, he warned of an “illegal power grab”.
Hours later, the Special Intervention Force of the Army (CAPSAT) announced it had assumed command of the nation’s land, air, and naval forces.
Parliament had earlier voted overwhelmingly to impeach Rajoelina, but he dismissed the move as “null and void”.
CAPSAT commander Randrianirina said he was suspending all constitutional institutions except the lower house of parliament and promised elections within “18 months to two years”, adding that Gen Z protesters would be involved in shaping the transition.
Despite being suspended, the constitutional court asked Randrianirina to organise elections within 60 days.