The political turmoil in Madagascar intensified on Tuesday when the nation’s lower parliamentary chamber decisively voted to impeach President Andry Rajoelina, citing “neglect of duty” as the primary charge.
The impeachment motion garnered 130 affirmative votes, exceeding the constitutional requirement of a two-thirds majority in the 163-seat assembly. This development marks a significant setback for Rajoelina, who is reportedly in hiding amid widespread demonstrations criticizing his government’s management of the country’s crises.
In their formal declaration, members of the National Assembly accused the president of shirking his constitutional obligations and failing to quell the growing political and economic instability affecting the island nation.
Despite the parliamentary decision, the presidential office promptly dismissed the impeachment as unlawful, labeling the process as lacking any legal foundation.
“This session and its results hold no legal validity,” stated a representative from the presidency, affirming that Rajoelina remains the legitimate head of state and continues to fulfill his official responsibilities.
Since reclaiming power in 2019 after serving as a transitional leader, Rajoelina has encountered escalating resistance, with recent protests calling for his resignation and the organization of new elections.
