Madagascar has entered a new phase of military rule after an elite army unit, known as CAPSAT, seized power on Tuesday following the impeachment of President Andry Rajoelina.
The takeover came moments after lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to remove Rajoelina from office for “dereliction of duty.” The embattled leader is believed to have fled the island nation as soldiers joined widespread protests over the weekend.
Colonel Michael Randrianirina, commander of the CAPSAT unit, has declared himself the head of state, pledging a transitional government that will last no longer than two years.
He emphasized that the transition will focus on stabilizing the country and restoring confidence in government institutions.
READ MORE: Madagascar’s President Rajoelina Dissolves Parliament Amid Impeachment Plot
“Our priority is to ensure peace and security while preparing the ground for credible elections,” Randrianirina said. “We will work with all stakeholders to rebuild trust and strengthen the institutions that serve the Malagasy people.”
“We will restore order and organize elections within 18 to 24 months,” Randrianirina told reporters, adding that a new government would be formed under a “consensus prime minister.”
The military leader announced that the transition would be supervised by a joint committee of officers from the army, police, and gendarmerie, with a focus on restructuring key national institutions.
He also promised that public services and essential governance functions would continue without disruption.
The constitutional court has since validated the impeachment, officially recognizing Randrianirina’s authority.
The United Nations and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have both voiced alarm, calling for calm and warning against any unconstitutional transfer of power.
A UN spokesperson said the international community was “closely monitoring the situation” and urged a swift return to democratic governance.
Rajoelina, who last appeared in public a week ago, has not issued a statement since the coup. His office earlier condemned the move as “a clear act of attempted coup,” insisting that he remains the legitimate president.
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