Madagascar’s military authorities have sharply criticised Eswatini for hosting ousted president Andry Rajoelina, describing the visit as a “grave infringement” of the country’s sovereignty and a politically unacceptable act.
The backlash followed Eswatini’s release of images last week showing King Mswati III meeting Rajoelina, during which the monarch urged Madagascar’s military rulers to restore constitutional order. The meeting marked Rajoelina’s first public diplomatic appearance since he was deposed and fled the country in October.
In a statement, Madagascar’s military leader Col Michael Randrianirina issued his “strongest condemnation” of the visit, warning that hosting the former president risked undermining ongoing efforts to stabilise the country and restore constitutional rule.
Rajoelina was removed from power by elite military units after weeks of youth-led protests over chronic water and electricity shortages, with security forces ultimately siding with demonstrators. At least 30 people were killed during unrest in September and October 2025, according to the military authorities.
Madagascar’s military leadership also claimed that Rajoelina had voluntarily renounced his Malagasy nationality after acquiring foreign citizenship, arguing that any attempt by him to present himself as a legitimate representative of Madagascar was “legally unfounded”.
“This situation is of particular gravity given that the individual concerned was serving as head of state during tragic events that cost dozens of Malagasy citizens their lives,” the statement said.
Eswatini rejected accusations of interference, saying the meeting was part of its regional diplomatic role. The king’s office said Rajoelina was neither seeking asylum nor political intervention.
On Monday, monarchy spokesperson Percy Simelane said King Mswati III had consulted the Southern African Development Community (SADC) before holding the meeting, adding that criticism directed at Eswatini was “misguided and unfortunate”.
Randrianirina has pledged to organise elections within two years. In December, SADC instructed Madagascar’s military authorities to submit a roadmap for restoring democratic rule by 28 February, including a timeline for fresh elections.