In Madagascar, the dismissal of the president of the Senate created a real political shock. During an extraordinary session on October 12, 2023, senators voted unanimously for the dismissal of Herimanana Razafimahefa. This decision follows Razafimahefa’s revelations that he was threatened with death by advisors to President Andry Rajoelina if he did not step down as interim head of state. Reactions to this announcement were strong and gave rise to an ongoing legal debate.
During the extraordinary session of the Senate, the atmosphere was tense. Herimanana Razafimahefa initially affirmed that he was ready to take over as interim head of the country, but faced with accusations of mental deficiency made by the senators, he finally left the room to protest against this extraordinary session deemed “illegal “. According to him, the texts clearly indicate that a serious reason is required to convene such a session and that the Senate should only meet if the National Assembly is also convened.
The senators, meanwhile, stood by their statements that there were never any death threats against Razafimahefa or her family. They believe that such statements are abnormal and inconsistent and do not allow Razafimahefa to lead the country in the interim.
This political dispute risks leading to a legal debate in the coming days. Razafimahefa says he is ready to prove his good mental health with medical certificates and intends to turn to the High Constitutional Court to challenge the validity of the senators’ approach.
This dismissal of the president of the Malagasy Senate is a major event in the country and raises many questions about the political future of Madagascar. The ongoing legal debate will determine whether this dismissal is legal or not. In the meantime, the political situation remains tense and all eyes are on the High Constitutional Court to decide this matter.