Madagascar swears in Colonel Randrianirina after military takeover
Madagascar is set to swear in Colonel Michael Randrianirina as president on Friday, following a military takeover that forced President Andry Rajoelina to flee. The country’s highest court is expected to formalize Randrianirina’s appointment, after Rajoelina was impeached for desertion of duty earlier in the week.
Randrianirina, who denies leading a coup, said the government would remain civilian and pledged elections within 18 to 24 months. He emphasized that the government would be made up of both military and civilian leaders. His appointment followed protests against Rajoelina’s government, particularly over power cuts and a harsh crackdown on demonstrators.
Rajoelina fled the country, reportedly aboard a French military plane, fearing for his life. Madagascar joins a growing list of former French colonies where the military has taken control since 2020.
