Madagascar Military Seizes Power Amidst Protests and Presidential Flight

Military Takeover in Madagascar

• ⚡ Madagascar's military has announced it has taken charge of the Indian Ocean island nation.
• 🗣️ The announcement was made by an army colonel on national radio following a standoff.

Presidential Flight and Protests

• ✈️ President Andry Rajoelina fled abroad on a French military jet amidst protests.
• ✊ Youth-led protesters and security forces had been in a standoff, with gatherings in the capital.
• 🏛️ The military is dissolving all institutions except the Lower House of Parliament, which had voted to impeach Rajoelina.

Political Standoff and International Reaction

• 🚫 Despite fleeing, Rajoelina is refusing to step down.
• ⚠️ The presidency stated the impeachment was unconstitutional.
• 🇫🇷 French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the need to preserve constitutional order and warned against exploitation by military factions.