Deposed Madagascan Leader Deprived of Nationality

Former Madagascan President Andry Rajoelina, removed from power in a coup recently, has lost of his citizenship from the current authorities.

The decree, signed by the current PM Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, referenced national legislation stating that people who gained foreign citizenship must give up their citizenship of Madagascar.

Rajoelina, in his fifties, acquired French status a decade ago, resulting in appeals for his removal from the last national vote. But he defied such appeals and ultimately triumphed.

The ex-leader left the African island nation after weeks of protests over ongoing power and water shortages, leading to a seizure of power spearheaded by Colonel Randrianirina.

The former leader stated he has gone into hiding for his personal security, and his whereabouts are unknown.

When he disclosed his French nationality prior to Madagascar's last presidential election, he argued he had obtained discreetly it to simplify life for his children studying in overseas.

In recent weeks, he had confronted protests started by youth group young protesters and inspired by parallel demonstrations against authorities in the Asian country, which were further aggravated when his government responded with aggression.

The president dismissed his energy minister and then his cabinet - but this did not silence the calls for him to leave office.

Protesters had hoped that he would leave his post to create the path for a smooth, transfer of power.

However, he clung to power, finally causing the nation's special forces, of which the colonel commanded, to take control.

The colonel was inaugurated and has established a fresh administration, promising to conduct a vote within two years.