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Madagascar Military Seizes Power After Parliament Impeaches Rajoelina

The Capsat commander says he will lead a short transition to elections, with a swearing-in as president set for Friday.

Overview

  • Lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to impeach Andry Rajoelina despite his decree attempting to dissolve the National Assembly.
  • The High Constitutional Court recognized a vacancy and invited Col. Michael Randrianirina to serve as head of state, and the military says the ceremony will be held Friday.
  • Randrianirina said a council of officers will govern, a prime minister will be appointed quickly, and elections are planned within 18 to 24 months.
  • Rajoelina fled aboard a French military aircraft, according to multiple reports, and he continues to denounce the takeover as an illegal coup.
  • The African Union suspended Madagascar as the UN reported at least 22 deaths since Gen Z-led protests over water and power failures began on September 25.