Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has dissolved the national assembly, pre-empting an opposition-led vote to force him out of office amid a spiraling political crisis.
The decree, posted on Facebook, dissolves the assembly immediately upon broadcast via radio or television. Rajoelina, who has faced weeks of deadly protests and mutinous soldiers demanding his resignation, claimed the move was necessary to “restore order within our nation and strengthen democracy.”
The opposition has vowed to proceed with impeachment proceedings, questioning the legality of the dissolution.
Rajoelina’s decision comes after he fled the country, reportedly for a “safe place,” amid escalating violence and protests.
The protests, led by young demonstrators and joined by mutinous soldiers, began on September 25 over water and power shortages but have since escalated into a broader uprising against the government.
The president’s fate remains uncertain as the opposition and military factions vie for power.
