The African Union (AU) on Wednesday announced the suspension of Madagascar from all its activities with immediate effect, following a military coup that ousted President Andry Rajoelina from power.

The AU said the suspension would remain in place “until constitutional order is restored,” reiterating its zero-tolerance stance on unconstitutional changes of government.

The latest coup marks a dramatic reversal for Rajoelina, who himself rose to power in 2009 through a military-backed takeover before being elected president years later. On Tuesday, the same military unit that once supported his ascent declared it was seizing power, citing weeks of youth-led protests against corruption, economic hardship, and poor governance.

The unrest had intensified amid widespread frustration over the high cost of living, limited access to education, and persistent poverty, with the World Bank estimating that about 75 percent of Madagascar’s 30 million citizens live below the poverty line.

Following the takeover, the military announced that Colonel Randrianirina would be sworn in as transitional president during a session of the High Constitutional Court on October 17.

The AU’s suspension of Madagascar adds to a growing list of African countries penalized for military takeovers in recent years, including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea.