A bold and unexpected turn of events has unfolded in Madagascar, leaving the nation in a state of flux. The military's seizure of power, following weeks of anti-government protests, has sparked a controversial chapter in the country's history.
In a dramatic move, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, commander of the elite CAPSAT military unit, announced that the army was taking control of Madagascar. He promised the establishment of a committee led by military and police officials, followed by the swift formation of a civilian government. This declaration came just moments after members of parliament voted to impeach President Andry Rajoelina, who had gone into hiding, fearing for his life amidst the escalating protests.
The impeachment vote, with an overwhelming majority of 130 'yes' votes, proceeded despite Rajoelina's attempt to dissolve the lower house of parliament on the same day. In a social media address, Rajoelina confirmed his absence, stating that he was in a secret location.
But here's where it gets controversial... The official Facebook page of the Madagascan presidency denounced the army's actions as a "coup d'etat," insisting that Rajoelina remained the legitimate leader. However, the army seemed determined to avoid the coup label, with some protesters welcoming the military intervention as a necessary step to remove Rajoelina from power.
The youth of Madagascar, in their "Gen Z" protests, took to the streets of Antananarivo, demanding Rajoelina's resignation. They expressed anger over the water and electricity shortages that have crippled the country, with some protesters claiming they haven't had running water for six years despite paying for it. The CAPSAT military unit sided with the protesters, refusing to suppress the demonstrations and referring to the people as their "brothers and sisters."
Rajoelina's escape, reportedly aboard a French plane, left some of his officials believed to have fled to Mauritius. Madagascar, a former French colony, has a history of rebellions, with Rajoelina himself coming to power through a 2009 coup, aided by the same military unit that has now ousted him. However, the people's perception of Rajoelina has soured, blaming his government for poor governance, corruption, and the challenges faced by the country's 31 million inhabitants.
In an attempt to placate the demonstrators, Rajoelina dismissed his government, but the protests persisted, demanding his resignation. The United Nations reported that over 20 people lost their lives during the protests, with authorities accused of using deadly force.
Some Madagascans, like Sariaka, one of the protesters, view the military's intervention as a necessary step to get the country back on track. "The army is the only neutral institution that can guide us," Sariaka told NPR. When asked about the coup, Sariaka responded, "To me, it's a popular revolution supported by a military unit."
Fanilo, a 21-year-old medical student, shared similar sentiments, expressing relief and excitement over Rajoelina's removal. "We are no longer oppressed," he said. Regarding the military's seizure of power, Fanilo added, "I'm not too concerned because the current military leadership is capable and trustworthy, especially with their plan to return power to a civilian government."
And this is the part most people miss... The army's actions, while controversial, have been welcomed by some as a potential catalyst for positive change. However, the question remains: Can the military truly facilitate a smooth transition to civilian rule, or will this lead to further instability? What are your thoughts on this turn of events? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments below!
