In a significant political development, Madagascar’s government has formally revoked the citizenship of its ousted President Andry Rajoelina. This decision follows a military takeover and pronounced civic unrest. The publication of the decree in the official gazette effectively bars Rajoelina from contesting future elections, as detailed here.
The revocation is rooted in Rajoelina’s acquisition of French citizenship, reportedly obtained in 2014, which automatically nullified his Malagasy nationality under the country’s Nationality Code. This code stipulates the loss of Malagasy citizenship upon the voluntary acquisition of another nationality. Controversy had surrounded Rajoelina’s dual citizenship since mid-2023, with legal challenges failing to disqualify him from the 2023 presidential race, even though major opposition groups boycotted the elections.
Public unrest in Madagascar reached a boiling point in late September 2025, spearheaded by youth protests addressing chronic issues such as power outages, water shortages, and rampant corruption. The socio-economic climate has been strained, with approximately 75% of the 30 million population facing poverty, exacerbated by expensive living conditions and inadequate educational opportunities.
The political upheaval intensified when the military, particularly an elite unit known as CAPSAT, sided with protesters and took control of critical installations. Following these events, Rajoelina fled Madagascar, citing safety concerns, and the Lower House subsequently impeached him for “engaging in activities incompatible with presidential duties.” The High Constitutional Court appointed Colonel Michael Randrianirina as interim president, who has pledged to organize elections within two years.
Rajoelina’s current whereabouts remain uncertain, while national attention shifts to how the new leadership will address pressing economic and social challenges. Insights into the complexities of the situation can be traced to local and international reports, illustrating the underlying struggles of Madagascar’s governance.