A group of Madagascar’s elite military officers has reportedly seized power in the Indian Ocean island nation following days of unrest and youth-led protests.
Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who leads the coup faction, announced the takeover in a broadcast on Madagascar’s national radio, declaring: “We have taken the power.”
The coup comes after widespread demonstrations and violent clashes erupted across the capital, forcing the country’s embattled president, Andry Rajoelina, to flee the country.
Madagascar, one of the world’s poorest nations, has faced growing political tension and economic hardship in recent months, with frustration mounting over unemployment, corruption, and inflation.
