Johnson Progress

The African Union (AU) has suspended Madagascar with immediate effect after a military coup led to the ousting of President Andry Rajoelina.

The decision was announced by AU Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, who emphasized the bloc’s commitment to upholding constitutional order and democratic governance.

The AU’s Peace and Security Council described the events in Madagascar as an “unconstitutional change of government,” which automatically triggers suspension under AU rules.

Youssouf stated, “The rule of law must prevail over the rule of force. Our approach is grounded in law and dialogue.”

The AU’s suspension of Madagascar carries significant diplomatic weight and could further isolate the country’s new leadership from international partners and regional bodies.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina, the leader of the military coup, has announced plans to be sworn in as the country’s interim president.

Randrianirina, a former commander of the elite CAPSAT army unit, promised a transition lasting up to two years before new elections are held.

“We took responsibility yesterday. We will be sworn in soon,” Randrianirina told journalists.

The military takeover follows weeks of youth-led protests dubbed the “Gen Z protests,” which demanded Rajoelina’s resignation over corruption allegations and economic hardship.

The unrest escalated when units of the army joined the protesters, refusing orders to suppress the demonstrations. Rajoelina, who fled the country amid mounting street protests and military defections, has rejected his impeachment by lawmakers and denounced the military’s seizure of power.

“My so-called removal is null and void,” he said in a statement issued from abroad.

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has also condemned the coup and selected a panel of elders to facilitate dialogue and de-escalate tensions in Madagascar.

The SADC mission, led by former Malawian President Joyce Banda, aims to promote peace, stability, and constitutional order in the island nation.

The AU’s suspension of Madagascar is seen as a significant move to promote democratic governance and constitutional order in the region.

The suspension also underscores the AU’s commitment to preventing unconstitutional changes of government and promoting peaceful resolution of disputes.