Madagascar’s top court has dismissed a request by an opposition lawmaker seeking the removal of the country’s military ruler, Colonel Michael Randrianirina.
The ruling was delivered on Thursday by the High Constitutional Court of Madagascar after opposition Member of Parliament Antoine Rajerison filed a petition accusing the military leader of treason and repeated violations of the constitution.
Rajerison alleged that Randrianirina breached constitutional provisions through a series of actions, including controversial political appointments.
However, the court ruled that the request was “inadmissible” because it failed to meet the constitutional conditions required for the removal of a sitting head of state.
Randrianirina assumed power in October last year after former president Andry Rajoelina fled the country amid escalating youth-led protests over shortages of water and electricity.
The military takeover initially generated optimism among some young Madagascans who hoped for political and economic reforms.
However, public confidence has reportedly weakened in recent months as frustrations over governance and slow reforms continue to grow.
In March, Randrianirina dissolved the government, dismissing the prime minister and the entire cabinet in a major political shake-up.
Human rights organisations have accused the authorities of cracking down on dissent by arresting demonstrators and using heavy-handed security tactics against protesters.
In recent weeks, groups of young people have staged scattered protests across Madagascar, criticising what they describe as the slow pace of promised reforms.
The transitional authorities have pledged to introduce a new constitution and organise presidential elections by the end of 2027 under a proposed political roadmap.
Madagascar has experienced repeated political instability over the years and has become one of several former French colonies in Africa to fall under military rule since 2020.
Countries including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have also witnessed military takeovers in recent years.
Despite being the world’s largest producer of vanilla and possessing rich biodiversity, Madagascar remains one of the poorest countries globally.
