Madagascar Revokes Ousted President’s Citizenship

Madagascar’s recently formed government has formally revoked the Malagasy citizenship of former president Andry Rajoelina, as outlined in a decree released on Friday, October 25, merely 10 days following his ousting from power through a military coup.

The decree, published in the nation’s official gazette and corroborated by several local media sources, declares that Rajoelina’s citizenship was rescinded due to his voluntary acquisition of French nationality in 2014. According to Malagasy law, individuals who gain another nationality automatically forfeit their Malagasy citizenship.

French broadcaster RFI confirmed the decree’s authenticity with the office of the new prime minister, Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, who authorized the order. Images of the document rapidly spread across online platforms shortly after its release.

This decision effectively prevents Rajoelina, aged 51, from participating in future electoral contests. He was impeached by parliament on October 14 after leaving the country amid weeks of demonstrations against his administration.

Rajoelina’s dual nationality had previously ignited significant controversy in 2023 when it came to light before the November presidential elections, nearly a decade after he acquired French citizenship. Opposition groups contended that his foreign nationality rendered him ineligible for office, yet he still ran and secured victory in the contentious election, which much of the opposition boycotted.

The ex-president fled Madagascar after Colonel Michael Randrianirina, leader of the CAPSAT army unit, announced on October 11 that his forces would no longer follow orders to suppress the youth-led protest movement, which security forces had earlier tried to quell with violence.

After his departure, Rajoelina stated he had gone into hiding for his safety but did not reveal his whereabouts.

On October 14, Colonel Randrianirina was inaugurated as Madagascar’s new president, vowing to restore stability and conduct elections within two years.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli