ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar — The leader of Madagascar’s military rebellion said Wednesday that he is “taking the position of president” in an interview with The Associated Press, adding that armed forces would be in charge of the Indian Ocean island for between 18 months and two years before any new elections are held.

Col. Michael Randrianirina, who led a mutiny by soldiers that ousted President Andry Rajoelina, said he expects to be sworn in as the country’s new leader in the next few days.

“There must be an oath-taking” to make his position official, Randrianirina said in an interview while flanked by other military officers. “We are staying here for at least 18 months, at most two years.”

Randrianirina announced Tuesday that the armed forces were taking power in Madagascar, capping we

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