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Col. Michael Randrianirina, who led a military coup, was sworn in as Madagascar’s president at the High Constitutional Court, flanked by nine red‑robed judges as guards drew swords and trumpets sounded. His lightning takeover ousted President Andry Rajoelina, who fled the country and whose whereabouts are unknown after reportedly escaping on a French military plane. The UN and African Union condemned the move, and Madagascar was suspended by the AU. Sparked by youth protests over outages, the cost of living and alleged elite corruption, Randrianirina says a military council will rule for 18–24 months before elections.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.