Entrepreneurship, politics, and controversy, Madagascar's controversial president Andry Rajoelina, has had an unusual path to power. He is now in exile following a wave of unprecedented protests in his country. Emily Boyle takes a look back at his life and career.

Antananarivo

Andry Rajoelina began his career in the entertainment and advertising industries before entering politics, becoming mayor of Antananarivo in 2007. He rose to national prominence during the 2009 political crisis, assuming the presidency at age 35 in what was widely regarded as a coup. After stepping down in 2014, Rajoelina returned to power in 2018 and won a third term in an election marked by low turnout, opposition boycott, and allegations of unfair practices.

Rajoelina's tenure has included controversial decisions, such as promoting unproven Covid-19 treatments and proposing unconventional tourism strategies. His rule has been characterized by promises of economic development, but also by persistent controversies over corruption and authoritarian governance.

Who is Madagascar's fleeing president Andry Rajoelina?

Born to a relatively wealthy family and privately educated, Andre Radzwell started his career as a DJ in the clubs and bars of Antananarivo. The fresh-faced politician launched his political career after establishing himself as a successful advertising entrepreneur. Radzwell became mayor of Antananarivo in 2007. During his time in office, he formed the Young Magalassi's Determined Party and led an opposition movement. His legacy culminated in the 2009 political crisis, which saw him become Madagascar's youngest ever president at just 35 years old, in what was widely considered to be a coup d'etat. He held the presidency until general elections were held in 2013. After stepping down in 2014, he returned to power four years later. Personally, I'm confident and I think that the Malagasy people will decide once and for all who will lead the country. So I'm again calling on all Malagasy people to come out and vote in large numbers and to do so now because we must not wait until the last minute to vote. During the Covid-19 pandemic, he promoted unproven treatments for the disease. He also suggested populating the island with wild animals from the savannah to attract tourists. Madagascar won his third term in 2023 in an election which was marred by a low turnout, an opposition boycott and allegations of unfair voting practices. Dear people of Madagascar, I am ready to dedicate myself entirely to the country and to run for office in order to become the president of all Malagasy people without distinction. His rule has been characterised by promises of economic development but also by controversies, particularly regarding corruption and authoritarian governance.

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