The Lead-Up to the Military Coup Against Andry Rajoelina in Madagascar

Madagascar Military Announces Takeover, Dissolves Government

October 14, 2025

Antananarivo, Madagascar – A group of Military Officers have declared the assumption of power in Madagascar on Tuesday, October 14th, following the reported ousting of President Andry rajoelina. The proclamation came during a public appearance by the officers at one of the presidential palaces in Antananarivo.

The officers arrived at the location accompanied by armored vehicles, deploying personnel throughout the streets with weapons visible. Colonel michael Randrianirina, spokesperson for the group, stated they would dissolve both the Senate and the Constitutional Court, initiating their governance promptly.

Randrianirina had previously announced an impending shift in power on Saturday, October 11th, while speaking from the Capsat military camp, located south of the capital. This earlier statement seemed to foreshadow the events that unfolded on Tuesday.

The atmosphere among the involved military personnel appeared tense, with officers exhibiting visible uncertainty. Despite this, they proceeded with the proclamation of their control, signaling a significant political upheaval in the nation.

Military officials announce their power seizure in antananarivo on October 14, 2025. (LUIS TATO / AFP)

Political Instability in Madagascar: A Historical Context

Madagascar has a history of political instability, with frequent changes in leadership throughout its recent history. Coups and political crises have been a recurring theme, impacting the nation’s development and democratic progress.

Year	Event
1972	Military coup overthrows President Philibert Tsiranana.
1996	political crisis leads to a constitutional referendum.
2009	President Marc Ravalomanana is ousted in a political crisis.
2018	Andry Rajoelina is elected president in a contested election.
2025	Military seizes power,dissolving the Senate and Constitutional Court.

Did You Know? Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world,known for its unique biodiversity and lemurs.

Pro Tip: Staying informed about global events requires consulting multiple news sources to obtain a complete understanding.

The recent power seizure raises questions about the future of Madagascar and the potential for further unrest.The international community is closely monitoring the situation, and calls for a peaceful resolution are expected.

What impact will this military takeover have on Madagascar’s economy and international relations? how will the international community respond to thes developments?

Understanding Military Interventions in African Politics

Military interventions in African politics are not uncommon, frequently enough stemming from issues of corruption, economic hardship, and political instability. These interventions can have both short-term and long-term consequences, disrupting democratic processes and hindering development. The Council on Foreign Relations provides a detailed analysis of coups in Africa.

The role of the military in governance is a complex issue, with arguments for and against intervention. While some argue that military intervention is necessary to restore order and protect national interests, others emphasize the importance of civilian rule and democratic processes.

Frequently Asked Questions about the madagascar Takeover

• What is happening in Madagascar? Military officials have seized power, dissolving the Senate and the Constitutional Court.
• Who is leading the military takeover? Colonel Michael Randrianirina is the spokesperson for the group of officers.
• What was the situation before the takeover? President Andry Rajoelina had reportedly been ousted.
• Is this a common occurrence in Madagascar? Madagascar has a history of political instability and frequent changes in leadership.
• What are the potential consequences of this takeover? The takeover could lead to further unrest, economic disruption, and political instability.
• What is the international reaction to the takeover? The international community is closely monitoring the situation and calls for a peaceful resolution are expected.
• What is the Capsat camp? Capsat is a military camp located south of the capital city of Antananarivo, from where initial statements regarding a shift in power were made.

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What were the primary grievances fueling the protests lead by Andry Rajoelina against Marc Ravalomanana?

The Political Landscape of Early 2009

The events culminating in the 2009 coup d’état against Madagascar’s then-President Marc ravalomanana, and subsequently impacting Andry rajoelina’s rise to power, were rooted in a long-simmering political crisis. Understanding the context of Madagascar politics requires examining the fractured relationship between Ravalomanana and Rajoelina,a former disc jockey turned politician. Ravalomanana’s election in 2001, and re-election in 2006, were initially hailed as a step towards democratic stability after years of political turmoil. However, his leadership style, perceived as autocratic and focused on consolidating power, fueled growing discontent. Political instability in Madagascar became a defining characteristic of the period.

The Rise of Andry Rajoelina and Antananarivo Mayoral conflict

Andry Rajoelina’s ascent began with his election as Mayor of antananarivo in December 2007. This victory promptly put him at odds with Ravalomanana. The President swiftly moved to dismiss Rajoelina from his post, citing technicalities related to his prior criminal record (a conviction for theft as a teenager, later pardoned). This dismissal ignited widespread protests,especially among young people who saw Rajoelina as a symbol of change and a challenge to the established order. The Antananarivo mayoral dispute became a focal point for national unrest.

* Ravalomanana argued the dismissal was legally justified, upholding the constitution.

* Rajoelina and his supporters framed it as a politically motivated attack on democracy.

* The conflict highlighted the deep divisions within Madagascar’s political elite.

Escalating Protests and Government Response

Throughout 2008 and early 2009, protests organized by Rajoelina’s movement, known as the Tavy (flame), intensified. These demonstrations,often violent,paralyzed the capital city and disrupted economic activity. Key grievances included:

* Economic hardship: Rising food prices and a perceived lack of economic opportunity fueled public anger. Madagascar economy was struggling, and the government’s response was seen as inadequate.

* Corruption allegations: Ravalomanana’s government faced accusations of widespread corruption and mismanagement of public funds.

* Lack of political freedom: Critics argued that ravalomanana was suppressing dissent and undermining democratic institutions.

The government responded with increasingly heavy-handed tactics, including the use of force against protesters. This only served to escalate the situation, further radicalizing Rajoelina’s supporters.The 2009 Madagascar protests were a critical turning point.

The Role of the Military and the Coup

The tipping point came in late January and early Febuary 2009.Discontent within the military began to surface,with factions expressing sympathy for Rajoelina’s cause. On February 7th,2009,elements of the military,led by Rear Admiral Hyppolite Ramaroson,seized control of the state broadcasting station and declared their support for Rajoelina.

* Ravalomanana attempted to regain control, but his efforts were hampered by the military’s defection.

* The military effectively forced Ravalomanana to hand over power to Rajoelina, who was then installed as the head of a High Transitional authority (HTA).

* This transfer of power was widely condemned internationally as a coup d’état. Madagascar coup 2009 marked a significant setback for democracy in the country.

International Reaction and Sanctions

The international community reacted strongly to the coup.the African Union (AU) suspended Madagascar’s membership, and many countries, including the united States and the European Union, imposed sanctions. These sanctions included:

* Suspension of non-humanitarian aid.

* Travel restrictions on key figures involved in the coup.

* Condemnation of the unconstitutional change of government.

The sanctions aimed to pressure Rajoelina to restore constitutional order and hold free and fair elections. International response to Madagascar coup was largely unified in its condemnation.

The Aftermath and Transition period

Rajoelina’s assumption of power ushered in a period of political instability and uncertainty. He promised to hold elections within a year, but repeated delays and disputes over electoral rules prolonged the transition. The Madagascar political transition was fraught with challenges.

* The HTA faced opposition from Ravalomanana’s supporters and other political factions.

* The economy continued to struggle, and social unrest persisted.

* The legitimacy of Rajoelina’s government remained contested both domestically and internationally.

Key Players in the Crisis

Understanding the individuals involved is crucial to grasping the complexities of the lead-up to the coup:

* Marc Ravalomanana: The incumbent President whose policies and leadership style fueled opposition.

* Andry rajoelina: The charismatic Mayor of Antananarivo who became the face of the opposition movement.

* Rear Admiral hyppolite Ramaroson: the military leader who played a key role in orchestrating the coup.

* The Military: Its shifting allegiances were pivotal in the overthrow of Ravalomanana.