Madagascar's military says it now controls country after President's impeachment | DW News

Key Concepts

• Impeachment: The process of removing a president from office.
• Coup d'état: The sudden, illegal seizure of power from a government.
• Military Mutiny: An act of rebellion by soldiers against their superiors or government.
• High Constitutional Court: The highest court in Madagascar responsible for interpreting the constitution.
• Generation Z (Gen Z) Protesters: A youth-led movement driving anti-government demonstrations.
• Capsat Army Unit: An elite military unit that joined the anti-government protests.
• Referendum: A direct vote by the electorate on a particular proposal or policy.

Madagascar Political Crisis: Military Takes Control Amidst Presidential Impeachment

This report details the dramatic political upheaval in Madagascar following the impeachment of President Anredner, who is reportedly in hiding and has allegedly fled the country. The crisis was ignited by a powerful military unit, the Capsat army unit, which joined widespread anti-government protests fueled by high unemployment and corruption allegations. Colonel Michael Randrian is anticipated to be sworn in as the new president.

Presidential Impeachment and Public Reaction

Protests demanding President Hans Fraduela's resignation had been ongoing for weeks across Madagascar. The impeachment has been met with widespread relief and celebration. One protester expressed, "It feels like we've just been released from prison. We know all the harm he has done. I'm truly relieved that Anraa is no longer in power. This is also a message to his successor. Learn from this and don't make the same mistakes."

Military Intervention and Dissolution of Institutions

Following the impeachment, soldiers from the elite Capsat army unit asserted control. They announced the dissolution of the Senate, the scrapping of top courts, and the electoral commission. The army outlined a plan to establish a committee or council, initially composed of army and gendarmerie officers, with the potential inclusion of senior civilian advisors over time. The soldiers have pledged to hold new elections within a minimum of two years.

The Role of the Capsat Army Unit and Colonel Michael Randrian

Colonel Michael Randrian, a 51-year-old officer, has emerged as the leader of the military mutiny. He is described as not being a well-known personality and was previously sentenced two years ago for attempting a coup, marking a difficult period in his career. He is not considered close to the former President Radwell and has faced career difficulties during his mandate. Colonel Randrian has taken a leading role in public events and press interactions, becoming the figurehead of the army's actions.

Situation on the Streets of the Capital

The atmosphere in the capital, Antana Revivo, has transformed significantly. With protests no longer being repressed, people are gathering in large numbers, particularly at the symbolic 13 May square. The mood is described as celebratory, with people drinking and enjoying themselves, expressing themselves freely. Artists are performing on stage, and civil unions, students, professors, and teachers are able to voice their demands. The police are not intervening, creating a starkly different environment compared to previous weeks.

Legal and Political Uncertainty

Despite the military's actions and the public's hope, the situation remains complex. President Radwell, while in hiding, insists he is still in power and has issued a statement calling the military's actions a "serious breach of the law" and accusing the Capsat unit of a coup. The United Nations has expressed concern over any unconstitutional change of power and urged parties to seek a peaceful resolution.

A legal debate has ensued, with the High Constitutional Court ruling that President Radwell could no longer be in charge as he is not in the country, thereby granting power to Colonel Michael Randrian. However, Radwell disputes the legality of this court decision.

Future Plans and Timetable for Elections

The military has proposed a two-year timetable for new elections. However, a High Constitutional Court decision mandates that elections must be organized within 60 days, creating a significant discrepancy and contributing to the current confusion. The legal framework for setting up the transition government and the defense council remains unclear.

The Role of Gen Z Protesters

The Gen Z youth-led movement has been instrumental in initiating and sustaining the anti-government demonstrations, initially sparked by frustrations over water and power shortages, which later evolved into protests against corruption and poverty. While they are in contact with the Capsat leaders and are attempting to organize themselves for a role in future institutions, their precise influence on the upcoming transition remains difficult to ascertain.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Madagascar is in a state of political flux following the impeachment of its president and the military's seizure of power. While the public celebrates the perceived end of the former president's tenure, legal and constitutional challenges persist. The military, led by Colonel Michael Randrian, has dissolved key state institutions and plans for new elections, but the timeline and legal basis for these actions are contested. The involvement of the Gen Z protesters and the potential for mediation by African Union and SADC representatives will be crucial in determining the country's path forward. The immediate future is marked by uncertainty regarding the legitimacy of the new leadership and the process of establishing a stable transition government.