The United Nations has condemned Madagascar’s latest military coup, calling for a swift return to constitutional order following the swearing-in of Colonel Michael Randrianirina as interim president.
The move comes after weeks of youth-led protests over power and water shortages that killed at least 22 people and injured over 100. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, through his spokesman, denounced the unconstitutional change of government and backed the African Union’s suspension of Madagascar from all its activities. He urged Malagasy stakeholders, especially the youth, to address the root causes of instability and reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to restoring peace alongside partners like the AU and SADC.
Randrianirina, head of the elite CAPSAT unit that turned against ousted President Andry Rajoelina, pledged a civilian-led transition with elections in 18–24 months. He appeared in a civilian suit during his swearing-in — an apparent bid to signal legitimacy and distance the move from a military dictatorship. Rajoelina, impeached for ‘desertion of duty, fled the country amid security concerns, reportedly flying to Dubai via Réunion. His camp has condemned the court-backed transition as illegal.
This marks Madagascar’s third military takeover since independence in 1960, in a country where over 80% live in poverty. International observers, including France, have urged full civilian participation in the transition and warned against further destabilization. As political tensions simmer, Madagascar stands at a crossroads — between authoritarian relapse and the promise of reform led by its mobilized youth.
