Madagascar Revokes Ousted President’s Citizenship
Madagascar's new government has officially stripped former President Andry Rajoelina of his Malagasy nationality. The decree was published in the official gazette just ten days after Rajoelina was removed from power in a military takeover. The decision effectively bars him from contesting any future elections in the country. The government's order cites a national law which states that any Malagasy citizen who voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship automatically loses their original nationality. Reports confirm that Rajoelina acquired French citizenship in 2014. This French citizenship had previously caused a political scandal when it was revealed ahead of the 2023 presidential election. Despite calls for his disqualification at the time, Rajoelina won the contested poll, which was boycotted by the opposition. Rajoelina was impeached on October 14 after fleeing the country amidst widespread, youth-led protests. The army unit tasked with suppressing the demonstrations, […]