An elite military unit says it has seized power in Madagascar from President Andry Rajoelina following weeks of youth-led protests in the Indian Ocean island.
Standing outside the Presidential Palace, CAPSAT chief Col Michael Randrianirina said the military would form a government and hold elections within two years. He also suspended key democratic institutions, like the electoral commission.
Gen Z protestors will be part of the changes because 'the movement was created in the streets so we have to respect their demands' he added.
Troops and protesters have been celebrating the apparent ousting of President Rajoelina, with thousands cheering and waving flags in the capital, Antananarivo.
Madagascar's constitutional court has named Col Randrianirina as the country's new leader, although the president's office claims Rajoelina is still in charge and denounces what it describes as an 'attempted coup d'etat'.
Rajoelina's whereabouts are unknown, but he has said he is sheltering in a 'safe place' following an alleged attempt on his life by military personnel and politicians, which CAPSAT has denied. There are unconfirmed reports that the president was flown out of the country on a French military aircraft.
Col Randrianirina said Madagascar was 'a country where chaos reigns right now', noting the absence of a president.
The unrest began just over two weeks ago after youth-led protests erupted against chronic water and power cuts across the country. The demonstrations soon escalated, reflecting wider dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's government over high unemployment, rampant corruption, and the cost-of-living crisis.
Protestors clashed with security forces, resulting in the death of at least 22 people and over 100 injuries, according to the UN, although the Malagasy government has dismissed these figures.
Despite attempts to dissolve the national assembly, Rajoelina faced impeachment by lawmakers, with a vote of 130 to 1 against him. He has called this process 'null and void'.
The African Union (AU) has warned against military interference in Madagascar's political affairs, as the island, one of the poorest countries globally, continues to experience significant turmoil.
