Armed forces pledge to seize national TV in Madagascar, presidential office announces, amid warnings of government overthrow

Government unrest in Madagascar
Protesters spearheaded national protests insisting on a fairer deal for residents

Military members have warned to seize the government TV headquarters in Madagascar as Leader Andry Rajoelina was expected to address the nation, his staff reports, amid unverified reports that he has fled the country.

A international military jet is reported to have evacuated Rajoelina from the Indian Ocean island to an secret location, following a 14 days of national protests aimed at removing him out of power.

His failed attempts to placate young activists - labeled "Gen Z Mada" - saw him sack his whole government and make additional compromises to no avail.

On Sunday, his office said an attempt was under way to push him out of power. He has not been seen in public since Wednesday.

Rajoelina's scheduled statement to the nation has been put off numerous times - it was originally due at 1900 national time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a influential army force - referred to as CAPSAT - that supported install Rajoelina in power in 2009 proceeded to weaken him by proclaiming itself in charge of all the military, while several of its personnel supported activists on the streets of the main city, Antananarivo.

Following a gathering of army officers on Monday, the recently appointed Military Commander appointed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, guaranteed the people that the military were collaborating to maintain order in the island nation.

By Monday night, the officer was at state TV headquarters trying to resolve the crisis, according to a announcement from the administration.

Communicating on understanding of anonymity, a senior official in Madagascar's largest opposition party told that Madagascar was now practically being run by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has furthermore stated it aims to bring removal actions against Rajoelina for "neglect of post".

Several of Rajoelina's inner circle have departed to adjacent Mauritius. They consist of ex- Cabinet Head Richard Ravalomanana and the executive Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Despite its plentiful natural resources, Madagascar is counted as the least wealthy countries in the world. About 75% of residents there live below the impoverishment threshold, while information shows approximately one-third of people have opportunity to electricity.

The protests started over frustration with frequent water and power interruptions, then increased to reflect broader dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's government over high unemployment, corruption, and the cost-of-living crisis.

At least 22 people were killed and over 100 injured in the initial days of the protests, although the government has disputed these figures.

Observers report law enforcement shooting on protesters with live ammunition. In a particular situation, a infant succumbed from smoke inhalation after being affected by tear gas.

Madagascar has been rocked by multiple uprisings since it achieved independence in 1960, including extensive rallies in 2009 that compelled then-President Marc Ravalomanana to leave office and saw Rajoelina placed into office.

At the age of just 34 at the time, Rajoelina became Africa's youngest leader - continuing to lead for four years, then returning to power a second time after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was raised in wealth and, prior to joining politics, had established himself for himself as an business owner and DJ - establishing a radio station and an advertising company in the process.

But his well-dressed, baby-faced charm rapidly declined, as accusations of cronyism and entrenched corruption became persistent.

Further details regarding Madagascar's situation:

  • About the Gen Z demonstrators who want to compel Madagascar's head of state from power
  • Defense commander designated as Madagascar PM to calm Gen Z demonstrations
Mark Kelley
Mark Kelley

A passionate historian and licensed Vatican tour guide with over a decade of experience sharing the wonders of sacred sites.