BREAKING: African Union Suspends Madagascar 'With Immediate Effect' Following Military Coup

ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA – The African Union (AU) has moved swiftly to suspend Madagascar from all its institutions, effective immediately, in response to a military coup that ousted President Andry Rajoelina. The decision, announced on Wednesday following an emergency session of the AU Peace and Security Council (PSC), underscores the continent's firm stance against unconstitutional changes of government.

The suspension follows a tumultuous 24 hours in the Indian Ocean island nation, where an elite army unit, CAPSAT, seized control after the National Assembly voted to impeach the embattled President Rajoelina.

AU Condemns 'Constitutional Rupture'

Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, the Chairperson of the AU Commission, confirmed the suspension, stating that the action was based on a "constitutional rupture" in Antananarivo.

"The country is suspended with immediate effect," Youssouf told the press, reiterating the AU's commitment to democratic principles. "The rule of law must prevail over the rule of force. Our approach is grounded in law and dialogue."

The AU's strong and immediate action is intended to isolate the new military leadership under Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who has declared himself the country’s new leader. Suspension means Madagascar loses its right to participate in continental meetings, a move with significant political and diplomatic repercussions.

Military Leader Assumes Power Amid Turmoil

The dramatic events unfolded after weeks of widespread, youth-led "Gen Z" protests over economic hardship, corruption, and chronic shortages of water and electricity. President Rajoelina reportedly fled the country as military factions defected to the side of the protesters.

Colonel Randrianirina, the CAPSAT commander, announced the military had taken control, dissolving most key institutions—including the Senate, the High Constitutional Court, and the electoral body—while leaving the lower house of parliament intact. He is expected to be sworn in as the transitional president on Friday, promising to hold elections within two years.

The United Nations (UN) and key international partners, including France, have voiced "deep concern" over the unconstitutional takeover, calling for the scrupulous upholding of democracy and the rule of law.

This marks a painful repeat of history for Madagascar, which the AU similarly suspended in 2009 after Andry Rajoelina himself initially came to power in a military-backed coup. The international community is now focused on how quickly stability and a return to civilian rule can be achieved in the face of this latest crisis.