Antananarivo: A powerful Madagascar military unit has taken over power after lawmakers voted in favor to impeach President Andry Rajoelina, army Colonel Michael Randrianirina said on Tuesday. Speaking on national radio, Randrianirina, the head of the elite CAPSAT military unit, announced that "we have taken the power," subsequently suspending all constitutional institutions including the senate, constitutional court, and electoral commission.
According to Kuwait News Agency, President Rajoelina was flown out on a French military plane to a "safe place" on Sunday. This move followed growing protests by the global Gen Z movement over issues of poverty and corruption, as stated by Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko, the leader of the opposition in parliament.
The East African nation has experienced weeks of violent youth-led protests against Rajoelina's rule, which were triggered by grievances over frequent power outages and water cuts. The political situation in Madagascar remains tense as the military's takeover adds to the uncertainty faced by the country.