In a surprising turn of events, Randrianirina announced that the military had seized control, dismantling all governmental bodies with the exception of the National Assembly, the lower chamber of parliament. This significant political shift was confirmed by two sources who revealed to Reuters that Randrianirina is set to be inaugurated as president within the coming days.

During a meeting of the African Union bloc earlier on Wednesday, Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf emphasized the importance of upholding legal frameworks over the use of force. He stated, “The rule of law must prevail over the rule of force. Our approach is grounded in law and dialogue.”

Randrianirina, who was once a commander in the CAPSAT, an elite army unit, notably influenced the 2009 coup that propelled Rajoelina to power. However, he recently parted ways with Rajoelina, advocating for military restraint and cautioning soldiers against using force on demonstrators.

Rajoelina, now 51, first ascended to power as the world’s youngest head of state at the age of 34, following a coup supported by youth-led protests. Despite his initial promises to enhance living standards and tackle corruption, many of these pledges remain unfulfilled. This backdrop sets the stage for Randrianirina’s imminent leadership and the challenges that lie ahead.

Randrianirina was a commander in the elite CAPSAT army unit that played a key role in the 2009 coup that brought Rajoelina to power but broke ranks with him last week, urging soldiers not to fire on protesters.

Failed promises

The 51-year-old former DJ rose to power in a coup in 2009 on the back of youth protests, becoming the world’s youngest head of state at 34. But promises to improve living standards and eradicate corruption were never fulfilled.