Madagascar President Dissolves Parliament Amid Political Crisis
Madagascar’s embattled President Andry Rajoelina has issued a decree dissolving the National Assembly, in a last-ditch attempt to stave off a political collapse as pressure mounts for his resignation. The president, who has reportedly fled the country, announced the decree on social media on Tuesday — just hours before lawmakers were expected to hold an impeachment vote against him. The political climate remains tense, with sections of the military and police now backing mass protests demanding that Rajoelina step down. According to a statement released by the presidency on Facebook, the decree “shall enter into force immediately upon its publication by radio and/or television broadcast.” Rajoelina defended his action in a separate online post, calling it a move to “restore order within our nation and strengthen democracy.” However, opposition leader Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko, who was leading the impeachment effort, dismissed the […]