Madagascar in Turmoil: Rajoelina Stripped of Citizenship Amidst Political Crisis

In a dramatic turn of events in Madagascar, former President Andry Rajoelina was stripped of his citizenship following a military coup. Rajoelina, who also holds French citizenship, fled the country amid widespread protests demanding his resignation. As political tensions escalated, new Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo invoked laws revoking citizenship for dual nationals.

The controversy surrounding Rajoelina's French nationality had long been a point of contention, particularly regarding his eligibility to contest the presidency he won in 2023. The demonstrations, driven by youth anger over persistent water and electricity shortages, morphed into broader discontent fueled by poverty and unemployment.

Historical precedents of coups and political instability mark Madagascar's political landscape since its 1960 independence from France. Rajoelina initially rose to prominence as head of a transitional government following the 2009 coup that ousted then-President Marc Ravalomanana. The nation continues to grapple with a legacy of leadership turmoil and unrest.