- Afro Insight News
The African Union (AU) has suspended Madagascar’s membership following a military coup that ousted President Andry Rajoelina earlier this week, the continental body announced on Wednesday.
In a statement issued after an emergency session, the AU Peace and Security Council condemned the “unconstitutional change of government” and declared that Madagascar would remain suspended from all AU activities until constitutional order is restored.
The decision came after soldiers led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina seized control of key government institutions and announced that the president had been removed from office. The colonel, who heads the elite CAPSAT unit, is set to be sworn in as interim leader on Friday, according to reports by Reuters.
The military justified its actions by citing widespread protests, power shortages, and economic hardship under Rajoelina’s administration. However, the AU reaffirmed its “zero tolerance” policy toward coups, urging the new authorities to ensure a swift return to democratic governance.
“The rule of law must prevail over the rule of force,” said AU Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf in Addis Ababa, emphasizing that the Union would not recognize any government that comes to power through unconstitutional means.
Madagascar’s suspension follows a string of similar actions by the AU in recent years after military takeovers in Mali, Niger, Guinea, and Burkina Faso. The move isolates the island nation diplomatically and could affect regional cooperation and economic assistance.
Local reports indicate that the transitional authorities plan to organize national consultations before announcing a timeline for new elections, which could take up to two years.
