Overview

• The National Assembly voted 130–1 to remove Andry Rajoelina after proceeding with a special session that leaders said was valid despite his attempt to dissolve the chamber.
• Rajoelina said he fled to a “safe place” because he feared for his life and did not resign, with radio reports indicating he left on a French military plane to Réunion.
• CAPSAT commander Col. Michael Randrianirina declared “we have taken power,” announced the suspension of the Constitution and key bodies, and said a council of the Army, Gendarmerie and Police would assume state functions.
• The CAPSAT announcement indicated the Assembly would continue to operate and outlined a transition that could last up to two years with a constitutional referendum.
• Youth-led protests that began over water and electricity cuts have broadened to anti-corruption demands, with the UN reporting at least 22 deaths in early unrest and foreign governments urging restraint.