Madagascar has entered a new phase of political turmoil after Colonel Michael Randrianirina, commander of an elite military unit, announced on Tuesday that the army had seized control of the government.
Antananarivo, Madagascar — October 14 (Running Africa) – The move followed the parliament’s impeachment of President Andry Rajoelina, who reportedly fled the country amid a military-backed youth uprising.
Speaking on national television, Colonel Randrianirina declared the creation of “a national reform mechanism that responds to the aspirations of the Malagasy people,” pledging to restructure existing state institutions and usher in what he described as “a new system of governance.”
In a televised address late Monday, Rajoelina confirmed that he had gone into hiding, citing threats to his life. “I was forced to find a place, and I went to a safe location to protect my life,” he said, while appealing for calm and dialogue and reaffirming his commitment to Madagascar’s sovereignty.
Image: theguardian.com
Antananarivo, Madagascar — October 14 (Running Africa) – The move followed the parliament’s impeachment of President Andry Rajoelina, who reportedly fled the country amid a military-backed youth uprising.
Speaking on national television, Colonel Randrianirina declared the creation of “a national reform mechanism that responds to the aspirations of the Malagasy people,” pledging to restructure existing state institutions and usher in what he described as “a new system of governance.”
In a televised address late Monday, Rajoelina confirmed that he had gone into hiding, citing threats to his life. “I was forced to find a place, and I went to a safe location to protect my life,” he said, while appealing for calm and dialogue and reaffirming his commitment to Madagascar’s sovereignty.
