Madagascar’s New Regime Revokes Citizenship Of Ousted President Andry Rajoelina

Madagascar’s new government has revoked the citizenship of former president Andry Rajoelina, a move announced in a decree published Friday, ten days after he was ousted in a military coup.

The decree bars Rajoelina from running in future elections. It cites his acquisition of French nationality in 2014, which under Malagasy law automatically nullifies Malagasy citizenship. The order was signed by Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, and images of the decree have circulated widely in local media.

Rajoelina, 51, had faced previous controversy over his dual nationality, which came to light ahead of the November 2023 elections. Despite opposition calls to disqualify him, he won the polls that were boycotted by rival parties.

Earlier this month, Rajoelina fled Madagascar after Colonel Michael Randrianirina, head of the army’s CAPSAT unit, refused to carry out orders to suppress ongoing youth-led protests. Rajoelina later said he went into hiding for his safety.

Colonel Randrianirina was sworn in as transitional president on October 14, promising new elections within two years as the country navigates a renewed political crisis.