Madagascar’s former leader Andry Rajoelina has fled the country after a Gen Z uprising pushed him out of office. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who was sworn in as president last month, says he’s humbled by the experience and is committed to helping the Malagasy people.
The colonel, who led an elite non-combatant military unit, joined the protesters and instructed officers to disobey shoot-to-kill orders.
At least 22 protesters were killed and over 100 injured in the protests, which were sparked by power cuts and water shortages.
The African Union has suspended Madagascar’s membership due to the military takeover, and the United Nations has condemned the “unconstitutional change of government.”
Colonel Randrianirina insists this is not a military coup, but rather support for the people to avoid civil war.
He’s promising elections in 18-24 months, after a “refoundation and recovery” of the country.
Gen Z organizers are optimistic about the change, saying they’ve been living under a dictatorship and are fighting for freedom of expression.
The new president credits the Gen Z movement for his position, but emphasizes that the entire Malagasy people wanted change.
He’s aware of the concerns about becoming another strongman, but says he’ll leave office if the people want him to.
