Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has dissolved the National Assembly to preempt impeachment proceedings, escalating the ongoing political crisis. This dramatic move came just hours after lawmakers prepared to discuss his removal due to alleged "gross constitutional violations."

• President Andry Rajoelina issued a decree on Tuesday, ordering the immediate dissolution of parliament.
• The President claimed multiple assassination and coup attempts against him since September 25, forcing him to go into hiding.
• Protests in Madagascar, initially about power and water shortages, have grown into a wider movement demanding Rajoelina's resignation, with elements of the elite Capsat unit reportedly joining demonstrators.