Madagascar is now under military rule following the dramatic impeachment of President Andry Rajoelina and the swift takeover by an elite army unit known as CAPSAT. On October 14, 2025, the National Assembly voted overwhelmingly to impeach Rajoelina for “desertion of duty” after he fled the country amid escalating youth-led protests2.
Moments after the vote, Colonel Michael Randrianirina announced that the military had assumed control of the government and suspended democratic institutions. He pledged to hold elections within two years, promising a transition back to civilian rule.
The capital, Antananarivo, witnessed celebrations as citizens welcomed the change, though international observers have expressed concern over the abrupt shift in governance. Rajoelina’s departure follows weeks of unrest, with demonstrators demanding accountability and reforms.
The CAPSAT unit, which led the takeover, has urged calm and vowed to restore stability. Analysts warn that the coming months will test Madagascar’s democratic resilience and the military’s commitment to its electoral promise.
