Madagascar's military rebellion leader, Col. Michael Randrianirina, has declared himself president, citing a 18-24 month rule by the armed forces before new elections. This follows weeks of protests by youth groups demanding better governance and opportunities, mirroring global youth-led movements. The rebellion, led by Randrianirina and his elite CAPSAT unit, forced President Andry Rajoelina to flee the country. Randrianirina claims authority from the High Constitutional Court, despite the military council's suspension of its powers. He aims to appoint a new prime minister swiftly to resolve the country's crisis. Madagascar's history is marred by coups and poverty, with Rajoelina's 2009 military-led coup bringing him to power as a youth champion. The international community's reaction is mixed, with some analysts condemning the military takeover as an expression of understandable grievances, while others call for the African Union to condemn the 'coup' and for no country to recognize the new leadership.
