Former Madagascan President Andry Rajoelina, who was ousted in a coup last week, has had his citizenship revoked by the newly established regime. The decision, authorized by Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, references local laws that dictate individuals who acquire foreign citizenship automatically lose their Malagasy nationality. Rajoelina, aged 51, had obtained French citizenship ten years ago, which had previously raised concerns regarding his eligibility for the 2023 presidential election. Despite these concerns, he won the election.
Rajoelina fled Madagascar following several weeks of protests spurred by ongoing power and water shortages, which eventually escalated into a military takeover led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina. He is reportedly in hiding for his safety, and his current location is unknown. When he revealed his French citizenship prior to the last presidential election, he claimed the decision was made solely for the benefit of his children studying in France.
In the lead-up to the coup, Rajoelina faced significant public unrest, initially organized by the youth movement Gen Z Mada, and echoed protests from other nations, such as Nepal. His government’s use of violence against demonstrators further intensified the situation. Although he dismissed his energy minister and subsequently his entire government, these actions failed to quell calls for his resignation.
Protesters anticipated Rajoelina’s resignation would facilitate a smoother transition to democracy. However, he remained in power, prompting the military’s elite unit to intervene. Following his ousting, Randrianirina has assumed leadership and formed a new government, which has committed to holding elections within the next two years.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c74jnngr1e3o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss