Madagascar Court Invites Army Colonel to Lead, Orders Elections

Madagascar's High Constitutional Court has declared the presidency vacant and invited Colonel Michael Randrianirina to assume leadership, instructing him to organize elections within 60 days. The move follows a military takeover of the presidential palace in Antananarivo and comes after weeks of youth-led protests over utility shortages and corruption allegations against President Andry Rajoelina.
Madagascar's political crisis has taken a dramatic turn as the nation's High Constitutional Court formally declared the presidential office vacant and called upon Colonel Michael Randrianirina, leader of the Army Personnel Administration Center (CAPSAT), to assume the functions of head of state. This constitutional intervention follows the military's takeover of the Ambohitsorohitra presidential palace in the capital, Antananarivo.
Constitutional Basis for Transition
The court's decision, citing Article 53 of the Constitution, mandates that a presidential election must be held within 30 to 60 days of the office being declared vacant. The ruling justified the move by stating that President Andry Rajoelina could not fulfill his duties because "he is not, and cannot be" in the country, constituting a "passive abandonment of power." The military had earlier announced that its officers would collectively assume presidential authority.
Political Turmoil and Institutional Suspension
The court's invitation to the colonel culminates a period of intense political instability. Prior to the takeover, Rajoelina had dissolved parliament amid widespread anti-government protests, a move that parliament countered by convening to pass a motion for his impeachment. The transitional plan includes a two-year period featuring a referendum on a new constitution and the suspension of five key institutions, including the Senate and the electoral commission, while the National Assembly remains operational.
Regional Concern and Underlying Crisis
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has expressed deep concern, calling for restraint and constitutional order. SADC Chairperson Peter Mutharika announced the bloc would dispatch a panel to facilitate dialogue. The crisis was triggered by youth-led demonstrations that began on September 25, protesting severe water and electricity shortages and corruption allegations. The situation intensified after Rajoelina claimed an attempt on his life and was reportedly evacuated to France.
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