Madagascar president dissolves National Assembly amid protests
Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina took dramatic action on Tuesday, dissolving the National Assembly in an effort to restore order and “reinforce democracy” amid growing protests and military dissent. In a statement posted on X, he invoked constitutional powers to dissolve the legislature, citing Article 60 as the legal basis for his decision.
The move comes after youth-led protests over water and electricity shortages spiraled into widespread calls for Rajoelina’s resignation. These protests, driven by the leaderless Gen Z Madagascar group, have gained support from military factions, including the elite Capsat unit, which recently declared control of the army. Rajoelina condemned this as an “illegal power grab” but aims to regain control by appealing to the youth and potentially triggering early elections.
This decision, while seen as an attempt to stabilize the country, has sparked concern from opposition groups, the military, and international bodies like the African Union and the United Nations, who have urged calm and respect for constitutional processes.
