Dozens are killed in january 2009 as a result of violent protests in Antananarivo following the closure of opposition TV and radio stations. Opposition leader Andry Rajoelina calls on the president to resign, and proclaims himself in charge of the country following the riots. In February Government sacks Rajoelina from his post as Antananarivo mayor. Dozens of people are killed after police open fire on an opposition demonstration in the capital. In March a group of military officers mutiny, saying they will now follow opposition leader Andry Rajoelina. President Ravalomanana resigns following further unrest, saying he is handing power over to the military. Andry Rajoelina assumes power with military and high court backing; suspends parliament and sets up two transitional bodies to run the island. Amid widespread international condemnation of the army-backed takeover, the US cuts off non-humanitarian aid and the African Union suspends Madagascar‘s membership.