In a dramatic escalation of the nation’s political crisis, Madagascar’s new government has stripped former President Andry Rajoelina of his citizenship, citing a violation of national law. The move follows Rajoelina’s flight from the country earlier this month as widespread, youth-led protests engulfed the capital and a military coup seized power.
The announcement came on Friday, with a government spokesperson confirming that Rajoelina lost his Malagasy nationality because he had acquired French nationality in 2014, an act they stated was in “contravention of Madagascar law.”
The political upheaval was further compounded by the arrest of Rajoelina’s former adviser, Mamy Richard Raveloson, in Mauritius. Mauritian authorities are suspecting Raveloson of money laundering more than $160 million through assets located in their country.
Rajoelina’s final weeks in office were marked by massive demonstrations that brought thousands of citizens onto the streets across Madagascar. Protesters voiced their anger over persistent power and water outages, a soaring cost of living, and widespread government corruption.
The situation culminated when an elite military unit launched a coup. Facing the loss of control, Rajoelina fled, claiming his life was in danger. Reports indicate he left the country aboard a French military plane, and his current whereabouts remain unknown.
Soon after the coup, the leader of the military faction, Michel Randrianasolo, was sworn into office. He has since promised to hold new elections within the next two years.
The dual actions of revoking the former president’s citizenship and the arrest of his close associate on serious financial charges signal a forceful start for the new administration as it attempts to consolidate control and address the grievances that fueled the recent unrest.
