The African Union suspended Madagascar on Friday, the strongest condemnation by the international community since opposition leader Andry Rajoelina took power with the support of the army. The AU decision followed criticism by southern African bloc SADC, the European Union and United States. Weeks of political unrest in Madagascar have killed at least 135 people, devastated the economy and worried foreign investors.
"The council is of the opinion that what occurred in Madagascar enters the definition of unconstitutional change of government," said Burkina Fasos Ambassador Bruno Nongoma Zidouemba, chairman of the AUs peace and security council. "The council then decided to suspend the participation of Madagascar to the bodies and organs of the AU."
Madagascars elected president, Marc Ravalomanana, was forced out on Tuesday after weeks of opposition protests that won the support of the military. "A civilian and military coup has taken place in Madagascar," Zidouemba said. The AU said the countrys new administration had six months to call an election, as provided for by the Malagasy constitution. Zidouemba said the pan-African body would meet at a later date to discuss possible sanctions. SADCs security troika of Mozambique, Angola and Swaziland said it would urge bloc members to impose sanctions on Madagascar when they meet in Johannesburg on March 30, South Africas SAPA news agency reported.
"The mood that was there was a mood of complete intolerance. The troika had to meet because a member country is under siege," South African Defence Minister Charles Nqakula said.