Madagascar’s military has taken control of the Indian Ocean nation following the sudden departure of President Andry Rajoelina, who fled the country amid a weeks-long uprising led by Gen Z protesters and backed by mutinous soldiers. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who led a faction of troops that defected to join the anti-government demonstrations, announced on national radio Tuesday: “We have taken power.” He declared that all state institutions were being dissolved—except the National Assembly, which had just voted to impeach Rajoelina minutes earlier.

The dramatic turn came after a day of political chaos. Earlier on Tuesday, the 51-year-old president had attempted to dissolve the National Assembly by decree—a move widely seen as a last-ditch effort to cling to authority. But his order was swiftly overtaken by events on the ground.

According to multiple sources—including an opposition official, a military insider, and a foreign diplomat—Rajoelina fled Madagascar on Sunday aboard a French military jet. Though now abroad, he has refused to resign, claiming he relocated to a “safe place” due to threats against his life.

The presidency dismissed the impeachment vote as “unconstitutional” and declared any resulting decisions “null and void.” However, it offered no immediate response to the military’s takeover announcement.

The crisis began on September 25, when protests erupted over chronic water and electricity shortages. They quickly evolved into a broader revolt against corruption, poor governance, and the collapse of basic public services—echoing recent youth-driven uprisings in countries like Nepal and Morocco.

On Tuesday, thousands gathered at Antananarivo’s 13 May Square, dancing, chanting, and waving Malagasy flags alongside a now-iconic Gen Z symbol: the skull-and-crossbones banner from the Japanese anime One Piece. Many demonstrators denounced Rajoelina as a “French stooge,” citing his dual citizenship and perceived reliance on Madagascar’s former colonial power.

At the height of the rally, Colonel Randrianirina addressed the crowd directly. “Are you ready to accept a military takeover?” he asked. The square erupted in cheers.

While the military has pledged to preserve the National Assembly for now, the path forward remains uncertain. The international community is closely watching developments in the strategically located island nation, where political instability has recurred for decades.