Madagascar Revokes Former President Andry Rajoelina’s Citizenship as Top Aide Arrested for Money Laundering

Madagascar’s political crisis has deepened after the government officially revoked the citizenship of former President Andry Rajoelina. The move follows weeks of unrest and growing allegations of corruption against members of his administration. Rajoelina, who reportedly fled the country earlier this month amid escalating protests, is now facing mounting international and domestic scrutiny over his political and financial dealings.

According to a government statement issued in Antananarivo, the decision to strip Rajoelina of his citizenship was based on the discovery that he had acquired French nationality in 2014, in violation of Madagascar’s constitutional requirement that the president must hold only Malagasy citizenship. The Ministry of Justice stated that this revelation disqualifies him from ever holding public office in Madagascar again, effectively ending his political career.

The decision comes at a turbulent time for Madagascar, a nation still grappling with political instability, economic decline, and widespread civil unrest. Rajoelina’s opponents have long accused him of corruption, nepotism, and authoritarian rule, while his supporters claim he is being targeted by political rivals seeking to consolidate power ahead of the country’s next election.

Adding to the political storm, one of Rajoelina’s closest aides was arrested in Mauritius on suspicion of money laundering. The aide, identified by Mauritian authorities as Jean-Luc Randrianasolo, was apprehended after attempting to transfer large sums of money linked to accounts held by companies reportedly associated with Rajoelina’s business interests. The Mauritian Financial Intelligence Unit confirmed that the funds were being investigated for possible connections to illicit political financing and embezzlement of state resources during Rajoelina’s tenure.

Mauritian authorities have reportedly contacted Madagascar’s anti-corruption bureau for cooperation in tracing the origin of the funds. Sources within the Malagasy Anti-Corruption Bureau (BIANCO) told Africanews that this investigation could expose a wider network of offshore financial activities tied to several former government officials.

Rajoelina’s loss of citizenship also reignites old political wounds in Madagascar’s fragile democracy. Having first come to power through a military-backed coup in 2009, Rajoelina ruled as transitional leader until 2014 before returning to the presidency in 2019. His tenure has been marked by allegations of corruption, controversial business deals, and tensions with opposition groups.

The protests that erupted earlier this month were sparked by anger over rising food prices, unemployment, and accusations of government mismanagement. Demonstrations in Antananarivo and other major cities quickly turned violent, prompting clashes with security forces. Human rights groups have condemned the use of force against civilians, calling for restraint and dialogue.

The revocation of Rajoelina’s citizenship may also have far-reaching diplomatic implications. France, where Rajoelina is believed to be currently residing, has not yet commented officially on his situation. However, sources close to the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs told Le Monde that France recognizes Rajoelina as a naturalized citizen and has no legal basis to extradite him unless an international warrant is issued.

Political analysts say the developments could alter Madagascar’s power dynamics in the coming months. Dr. Haja Randriamaholy, a political scientist at the University of Antananarivo, remarked that “revoking Rajoelina’s citizenship is not just a legal action, it’s a political maneuver meant to reset the power structure. It sends a strong message that dual loyalty will not be tolerated in Madagascar’s governance.”

Meanwhile, opposition groups have called for a full parliamentary inquiry into Rajoelina’s administration, including all contracts and transactions signed during his presidency. Civil society organizations have joined these demands, urging the government to use the case as a turning point for transparency and accountability.

However, some fear that the decision could backfire and further polarize the country. Pro-Rajoelina supporters have denounced the move as a “political witch-hunt” aimed at erasing his legacy. In a leaked audio message shared online, a person claiming to be Rajoelina vowed to “continue fighting for the people of Madagascar” and accused the current administration of “using fear and deceit to cling to power.”

Madagascar’s political future now hangs in the balance as the government faces pressure both domestically and internationally. With economic challenges mounting and social tensions at a breaking point, observers warn that the country’s fragile stability could deteriorate further without decisive reforms.

International partners, including the African Union and the United Nations, have called for calm and urged Malagasy authorities to ensure due process in all investigations related to Rajoelina and his associates.

As Madagascar awaits further developments, the revocation of Andry Rajoelina’s citizenship marks one of the most dramatic turns in the island nation’s political history; a story that continues to unfold in the shadow of deep public mistrust, political rivalries, and the struggle for justice.

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