Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who seized power in a coup, was sworn in as Madagascar ’s president on Friday amid cheers, trumpet fanfare, and raised swords, days after youth-led protests toppled his predecessor.

Ex-leader Andry Rajoelina , whom lawmakers impeached after he fled abroad at the weekend, has condemned the takeover and refused to step down while in exile, despite widespread defections in the security forces and the High Constitutional Court ratifying the army takeover within hours of it happening.

The African Union and the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres have condemned the coup, which came after weeks of “Gen Z” protests initially triggered by severe, chronic power and water shortages.

“I will fully, completely, and justly fulfil the high responsibilit

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