Madagascar said on Tuesday it had expelled a French diplomat after summoning France’s ambassador, citing suspected involvement in activities aimed at destabilising the country.
The Indian Ocean island led since October by Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who took power following youth-led protests that forced out former president Andry Rajoel has experienced recurring political unrest.
French ambassador Arnaud Guillois was notified of the decision “to declare a member of the French embassy accredited in Antananarivo persona non grata, on account of conduct deemed incompatible with his status,” Madagascar’s foreign ministry said in a statement, without identifying the individual concerned.
The ministry did not detail the alleged destabilisation activities, but said the move followed ongoing investigations involving both Malagasy citizens and foreign nationals.
Rajoelina fled the country in October as protests over shortages of water and electricity intensified, eventually forcing him from power. He departed with assistance from France, Madagascar’s former colonial ruler.
In recent weeks, sporadic demonstrations have taken place in the capital, Antananarivo, driven by frustration over the new authorities’ slow reform agenda and perceived failure to tackle corruption. Several young people have been detained in police crackdowns.
Randrianirina, who denies staging a coup, has said he will hand power back to civilians within two years. A transition plan released in February sets out national consultations in 2026, followed by the drafting of a new constitution and a presidential election by the end of 2027.
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