POLITICAL STORM IN MADAGASCAR: PRESIDENT RAJOELINA DISSOLVES PARLIAMENT AMID RISING MILITARY TENSIONS

ANTANANARIVO, MADAGASCAR – OCTOBER 14, 2025.

Madagascar has been plunged into deep political and military turmoil as President Andry Rajoelina dissolved the lower house of parliament following a series of dramatic events that have shaken the island nation. The move comes amid mounting protests, divisions within the armed forces, and reports that the President fled the country fearing for his life.

The latest developments began when tensions escalated between Rajoelina’s government and sections of the military aligned with opposition figures. According to local sources, the elite military unit known as CAPSAT (Personnel and Administrative Services Corps of the Army) defected from government control and sided with anti-government demonstrators in the capital, Antananarivo. These soldiers reportedly occupied strategic locations, declaring that they were intervening to “restore order and democracy.”

Facing growing unrest and loss of control over key state institutions, President Rajoelina took the drastic decision to dissolve the National Assembly, claiming that the move was necessary to prevent a total breakdown of governance. In a televised address, he cited the “urgent need to safeguard national stability” and promised that new elections would be announced once the situation calms down.

However, the political opposition, civic groups, and sections of the international community have expressed deep concern over the unfolding crisis. Opposition leaders accused the President of acting unconstitutionally and said that the dissolution of parliament was an attempt to cling to power. Meanwhile, thousands of protesters have continued to gather in Antananarivo, calling for the President’s resignation and a transitional government.

In a separate development, President Rajoelina confirmed reports that he had fled the country, stating that he did so temporarily to ensure his safety amid threats from rebel soldiers. Speaking from an undisclosed location, he said, “My decision to leave was not out of fear but out of caution. Madagascar must not descend into chaos. I will return when security is guaranteed.”

His departure has fueled speculation about a potential power vacuum. Analysts warn that if the situation is not resolved quickly, Madagascar could face a prolonged period of instability similar to the political crises of 2009 and 2018. The African Union and the United Nations have both urged all sides to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue.

The defection of the CAPSAT military unit marks a particularly troubling turn. The group has a history of involvement in political upheavals, most notably during the 2009 coup that brought Rajoelina to power for the first time. Their latest move, therefore, raises fears of another military-backed political shift. Reports indicate that CAPSAT forces have taken control of certain army barracks and are demanding the formation of a caretaker government until fresh elections can be held.

International reactions have been swift. France, the United States, and several African nations have called for calm, urging the Malagasy people to uphold democratic principles. The United Nations Office for Madagascar issued a statement emphasizing the need for respect of constitutional order and peaceful resolution of disputes.

Despite these appeals, the streets of Antananarivo remain tense. Shops and schools have closed in parts of the city, and transportation has been severely disrupted. Ordinary citizens have expressed frustration and fear, with many worrying about food shortages and the potential for violence.

As the situation evolves, Madagascar stands at a crossroads. Whether President Rajoelina returns to restore civilian authority or a new leadership emerges from the current chaos, the coming days will determine the country’s political future. For now, all eyes remain on Antananarivo as Madagascar faces one of its most serious crises in over a decade.