Madagascar's new military ruler, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, said he will be sworn in as president on Friday and was open to talks with the African Union, after it suspended the country's membership following a coup to oust President Andry Rajoelina.

The head of an elite Madagascar military unit ousted the African island country’s president in a coup, capping weeks of youth-led protests over poverty and other issues.

The army in Madagascar seized power on Tuesday, days after the president went into hiding saying he feared for his life after several weeks of massive anti-government protests.

MPs have voted to impeach President Andry Rajoelina, who has reportedly fled the country following anti-government protests.

What makes the Gen Z Mada movement in Madagascar significant is not only their use of digital tools but their ability to unify a disillusioned population around a shared vision of justice, transparency,

Russia said on Wednesday that it was closely watching events in Madagascar and it hoped that bloodshed would be avoided after the military took power following weeks of youth-led protests.

Madagascar's embattled President Andry Rajoelina said Monday he was sheltering in a "safe place" following an attempt on his life, ignoring calls to resign after spiralling unrest that has forced him into hiding.