Madagascar’s new military-backed government has revoked the nationality of ousted President Andry Rajoelina, in a move that further distances the former leader from the country’s political future.
The decision, announced through a decree published on Friday in the official gazette, comes just ten days after Rajoelina was removed from power in a military coup.
According to the decree, Rajoelina lost his Malagasy nationality after voluntarily obtaining French citizenship in 2014 an act that, under national law, automatically strips citizens of their Malagasy identity.
The government said the measure complies with the country’s nationality laws.
Local media shared images of the decree online, confirming it was signed by the new prime minister, Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo.
French broadcaster RFI also reported that the order had been verified by officials within Rajaonarivelo’s administration.
Rajoelina’s dual nationality first became public in 2023, just before the controversial presidential election.
The revelation sparked widespread outrage and calls for his disqualification, with critics accusing him of betraying national pride.
Despite the scandal, he went on to win the disputed vote, which the opposition boycotted.
The former president fled Madagascar earlier this month after army Colonel Michael Randrianirina announced that his CAPSAT military unit would no longer obey orders to suppress anti-government protests.
The demonstrations, largely driven by youth groups, had intensified following accusations of corruption and misrule.
On October 14, the military announced Rajoelina’s impeachment, installing Randrianirina as interim president.
The new leader has since pledged to restore order and hold elections within two years.
Rajoelina, 51, has not made any public statement since his removal.
He previously said he went into hiding for security reasons but did not reveal his location.
The revocation of his nationality now makes it impossible for him to contest future elections or hold public office in Madagascar.
This move could signal a deeper political purge, as the new government consolidates power amid uncertainty and lingering divisions following the coup.