Tue Oct 14 14:04:23 UTC 2025: **Madagascar in Crisis: President Rajoelina Flees, Parliament Impeaches Amidst Gen Z Protests**
Antananarivo, Madagascar – Madagascar is gripped by a political crisis after President Andry Rajoelina fled the country and attempted to dissolve parliament from an undisclosed location. Hours after his departure, the Malagasy parliament voted to impeach him, escalating the turmoil sparked by weeks of “Gen Z Madagascar” protests and a reported mutiny by an elite army unit, CAPSAT.
The protests, initially triggered by widespread water and power shortages, have evolved into a broader outcry against poverty, corruption, and perceived government inaction. Demonstrators, largely comprised of young people, are demanding Rajoelina’s resignation and sweeping reforms.
Rajoelina, who came to power in 2009 following a coup, has faced increasing criticism for alleged corruption and a stagnant economy. His attempts to quell the unrest, including sacking his prime minister and reshuffling the government, failed to appease protesters.
The situation took a dramatic turn when CAPSAT, an elite army unit, appeared to side with the protesters, refusing orders to fire on demonstrators. The unit then claimed control of the state broadcaster and announced it was “in charge,” further undermining Rajoelina’s authority.
From an unknown location, Rajoelina announced the dissolution of the National Assembly, citing the need to “restore order” and “strengthen democracy.” The opposition rejected the move, deeming it unconstitutional and proceeded with the impeachment vote.
The whereabouts of President Rajoelina remain unknown, with speculation swirling that he may have been flown out of the country on a French military plane. France has not commented on the matter.
The political instability has deepened concerns about the future of Madagascar, a country plagued by poverty and vulnerable to climate disasters. The international community is closely watching the situation, with analysts suggesting that negotiations are likely underway between the opposition, business leaders, and security forces to establish a new civilian government.
“The legal basis for this is unclear at the moment,” Kenya-based analyst Rose Mumunya told Al Jazeera. “Is he still the president? Legally, he is, but now that the army has announced they are taking over [security institutions], the legality of his decision to dissolve parliament is not really clear,” she said.
As Madagascar navigates this unprecedented crisis, the role of the High Court, which is thought to have Rajoelina supporters, is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s future. The court is likely to determine whether the president can dissolve parliament from an unknown location and if his impeachment can hold.
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