Madagascar’s transitional government has officially revoked the Malagasy citizenship of former President Andry Rajoelina, just ten days after a military-led ousting forced him from power.
The decision, announced in a decree published in the country’s official gazette, states that Rajoelina lost his citizenship due to acquiring French nationality in 2014. Under Malagasy law, citizens who voluntarily obtain foreign nationality automatically forfeit their Malagasy citizenship.
Rajoelina, 51, was impeached on October 14 after fleeing the island nation amid escalating protests. His departure followed a dramatic announcement by army Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who declared on October 11 that his CAPSAT military unit would no longer follow orders to suppress the youth-led demonstrations. Security forces had previously attempted to quell the unrest with force.
The revelation of Rajoelina’s French citizenship ahead of the November 2023 elections sparked widespread controversy. Critics demanded his disqualification, arguing that his dual nationality violated constitutional norms. Despite the uproar and a boycott by opposition parties, Rajoelina secured victory in the disputed election.
Following his ouster, Rajoelina claimed he had gone into hiding for his safety but did not disclose his location. The new prime minister, Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, signed the decree stripping him of citizenship, a move confirmed by officials close to the administration.
Colonel Randrianirina was sworn in as president on October 14. He has pledged to hold democratic elections within two years, marking a new chapter in Madagascar’s turbulent political landscape.
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