In a televised statement, the leader of an elite military unit confirmed that the armed forces had assumed control of state functions and were disbanding all government institutions except the National Assembly the same body that had voted for Rajoelina’s removal.

“The President has abandoned his post. In this moment of national instability, we have no choice but to take responsibility,” said the military spokesperson.

Rajoelina Flees Amid Protests

Rajoelina reportedly left the country on Monday, citing security concerns. His departure came amid a wave of youth-led protests, many driven by Gen Z activists demanding political reform, transparency, and greater economic opportunity. The protest movement had gained momentum in recent weeks and is being credited with creating the political pressure that led to Tuesday’s events.

Sources close to the presidency say Rajoelina has fled to a “safe location,” but his current whereabouts remain unconfirmed.

Earlier on Tuesday, in a last-minute attempt to hold onto power, Rajoelina issued a decree to dissolve the National Assembly, a move widely criticized as unconstitutional and seen as an effort to block the opposition-led impeachment vote.

Background: A President Under Pressure

Rajoelina, who first rose to power in a 2009 coup before being elected president in 2019, has faced increasing criticism over his handling of the economy, governance issues, and perceived authoritarian tendencies. His administration has also been accused of stifling dissent, mismanaging natural resources, and centralizing power.

Despite multiple attempts to consolidate control, public dissatisfaction has steadily grown particularly among Madagascar’s youth, who make up a significant portion of the population.

Tuesday’s events mirror a rising trend in parts of Africa where military takeovers and youth-driven protests have destabilized entrenched governments.

International Reactions and Uncertainty Ahead

There has been no immediate reaction from the African Union or United Nations, but diplomatic sources say regional leaders are closely monitoring the situation. The sudden power shift raises questions about Madagascar’s constitutional future, including the legality of the military’s move and whether elections will be called.

“We call for calm, constitutional order, and protection of democratic institutions,” one EU diplomat said, speaking anonymously.

The military has not announced who will lead the transitional government or how long it intends to remain in power.

The demonstrations, now entering their third week, were initially sparked by widespread frustration over persistent power outages and water shortages, but have since evolved into broader anti government protests. The movement, largely driven by students and young activists, has seen thousands take to the streets demanding President Rajoelina’s resignation.

Zafisambo, a member of the country’s administrative corps, has a military background. He began his training at the Antsirabe Military Academy in 1991 and later pursued further military education in France, according to French broadcaster RFI. His appointment is seen as an attempt to restore order and signal a shift in leadership amid the growing crisis.

Despite a heavy security presence, protests resumed on Monday with demonstrators rallying in the capital. Riot police responded with tear gas, further escalating tensions. Civil society groups and opposition figures have amplified calls for President Rajoelina to step down a demand he has so far firmly rejected.

In a national address on Saturday, Rajoelina acknowledged public frustration and claimed he was “ready to listen”, but remained defiant in the face of growing unrest. He accused opposition leaders of exploiting the crisis to “overthrow the government.”

During a Monday meeting with civil society leaders, the president ruled out any plans to seek a controversial third term, a concern that had fueled political unease in recent months.

Analysts say Zafisambo’s appointment may help stabilize internal government operations, but is unlikely to quell the protests unless concrete action is taken to resolve the underlying infrastructure issues and respond to the political grievances.