Madagascar was set Friday to swear in an army colonel as president, just days after a military power grab that sent President Andry Rajoelina fleeing and raised international alarm about a new coup on the island.

The country's highest court was now expected to formalise the appointment of Colonel Michael Randrianirina in a ceremony at 10:00 am (0700 GMT), capping a dramatic week in which Rajoelina was impeached for desertion of duty on Tuesday, with the military stepping in.

Amid international criticism, including from the United Nations, Randrianirina denied he had initiated a coup, pointing to the constitutional court's backing of his new role.

A large crowd gathered for the ceremony at the court Friday with representatives of a youth-led movement, which spearheaded protests that led

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