ANKARA

Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina on Tuesday dissolved parliament following weeks of anti-government protests across the country, saying it was necessary to restore order and make room for the youth.

“I have decided to dissolve the National Assembly, in accordance with the Constitution,” said Rajoelina on the US social media company X.

“This choice is necessary to restore order within our nation and strengthen democracy. The people must be heard again. Make way for the youth,” he added, sharing the decree.

Since Sept. 25, Rajoelina has faced youth-led protests over severe water and electricity shortages, as well as allegations of corruption, which have quickly escalated into calls for his resignation.

The unrest prompted government reorganizations, including the dissolution of the Cabinet and the appointment of a new prime minister and security chiefs.

However, Rajoelina faced continued opposition, with troops from the Army Personnel Administration Center (CAPSAT), a military unit instrumental in Rajoelina's rise to power through a 2009 coup, expressing support for the protests.

On Sunday, CAPSAT installed a new military chief, hours after Rajoelina denounced the protests as an illegal attempt to seize power, and his allies, former Prime Minister Christian Ntsay and businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga, flew to Mauritius on Saturday.

On Monday, Rajoelina said that he was in a "safe space" after an "attempt on his life."

He said only the country's constitution could end the impasse, which has seen weeks of anti-government protests.

"I was forced to find a safe place to protect my life today," the 51-year-old leader said in a live Facebook address, adding: "I never stop looking for solutions.”

Rajoelina's much-anticipated national address was eventually canceled due to delays caused by a group from the armed forces attempting to seize control of state-owned media outlets.

"Only the constitution can resolve the crisis," said Rajoelina, who earlier was reported to have been evacuated to France on a military plane Sunday after "a deal" with French President Emmanuel Macron.

However, Macron on Monday declined to confirm whether the island nation’s embattled leader was evacuated by its former colonial ruler, telling reporters in Egypt that "I just wish to express our great concern.”