Antananarivo. Madagascar’s military seized power from the civilian government on Tuesday, a senior commander announced, after President Andry Rajoelina, 51, fled the Indian Ocean island nation for his safety.

The ouster of Rajoelina, who first rose to power in a military-backed coup in 2009, followed weeks of protests led by frustrated youth angered by power and water outages, widespread poverty, and limited job opportunities.

Rajoelina’s office denounced the coup as “a serious breach of the rule of law,” insisting the state “remains standing.” But Col. Michael Randrianirina, whose elite CAPSAT unit shifted allegiance to the protesters last weekend, declared, “We are taking power,” as crowds celebrated alongside soldiers in the capital, Antananarivo.

Youth-led Uprising
The unrest began weeks earlier over chronic utility failures but quickly evolved into a broader movement against corruption and inequality. Around 75 percent of Madagascar’s 30 million people live in poverty, according to the World Bank.

The demonstrations, spearheaded by a group calling itself “Gen Z Madagascar,” drew thousands across multiple cities. A crackdown by security forces left at least 22 people dead and over 100 injured, the United Nations said — figures the government disputes.

Soldiers Join the Protests
A turning point came Saturday when Randrianirina and his CAPSAT troops marched with protesters to demand Rajoelina’s resignation. Fighting broke out with security forces loyal to the president, leaving one CAPSAT soldier dead.

The CAPSAT unit also led the 2009 mutiny that brought Rajoelina to power after toppling then-President Marc Ravalomanana, a parallel not lost on many Madagascans.

24 Hours of Turmoil
Tensions peaked Monday when Rajoelina’s planned national address was delayed for hours after troops surrounded the state broadcaster. Speaking later from a secret location, he claimed there was an assassination plot against him and vowed to uphold the constitution.

On Tuesday, lawmakers ignored his decree dissolving parliament and voted to impeach him. Soon after, Randrianirina announced the military takeover, saying a council of officers would appoint a prime minister to form a civilian government “quickly.”

France’s Role Questioned
Reports suggest France helped Rajoelina flee the country aboard a military aircraft. French President Emmanuel Macron declined to confirm the claim but expressed “deep concern” and “friendship with the Madagascar people.”

Rajoelina, who reportedly also holds French citizenship, has long faced criticism over his dual nationality.