Madagascar’s Ousted President Confirms He Fled Amid Military Takeover

Madagascar’s political crisis deepened this week as ousted president Andry Rajoelina confirmed he fled the country over the weekend. Speaking for the first time since his removal, Rajoelina cited “serious threats” to his life as the reason for his sudden departure. Reports suggest the 51-year-old was evacuated aboard a French military aircraft. Now in a "safe place," Rajoelina has accused the National Assembly of conspiring with the military to oust him. His departure follows weeks of mass protests, largely led by a Gen Z movement demanding access to water and electricity. The military has announced Colonel Michael Randrianirina as the interim leader, with a swearing-in ceremony planned for Friday. Phemelo unpacked the implications with researcher and analyst Advocate Sipho Mantula.