Madagascar’s Parliament took a decisive step on Tuesday, voting to impeach President Andry Rajoelina. This move comes despite the embattled leader’s insistence that the impeachment process is unconstitutional and his vow to remain in power.
This dramatic development plunges the island nation into a profound constitutional crisis. Weeks of intense, youth-led protests have already forced President Rajoelina into hiding, revealing deep public discontent.
Initially, the demonstrations erupted over the government’s inability to provide essential services like reliable water and electricity. However, the grievances quickly expanded to include a wider array of frustrations, drawing the attention of even Madagascar’s security forces, who have recently sided with the protesters.
Despite the mounting pressure, President Rajoelina has remained steadfast. On Monday, he broke his silence from an undisclosed location, stating he went into hiding due to threats against his life. He reaffirmed his commitment to the country, vowing to continue his work to ‘save the nation.’
Yet, as opposition lawmakers proceeded with the impeachment vote, President Rajoelina retaliated by issuing a decree to dissolve the National Assembly, the lower house of parliament. The Assembly, however, disregarded his decree and pressed ahead with the vote, which Rajoelina has deemed illegal.
The precise whereabouts of President Rajoelina currently remain unknown.