Armed forces pledge to occupy national TV in Madagascar, leader's administration reports, amid concerns of coup attempt

Government unrest in Madagascar
Young people initiated countrywide rallies calling for a fairer deal for citizens

Military members have threatened to take control of the government TV building in Madagascar as President Andry Rajoelina was scheduled to address the nation, his staff reports, amid unverified reports that he has fled the country.

A French military plane is believed to have transported Rajoelina from the African island to an secret location, following a 14 days of countrywide demonstrations designed to kicking him from power.

His unsuccessful attempts to calm young demonstrators - called "Gen Z Mada" - saw him fire his entire government and make other concessions to unsuccessfully.

On Sunday, his staff said an endeavor was ongoing to force him out of power. He has not been spotted in open since Wednesday.

Rajoelina's scheduled address to the nation has been delayed numerous times - it was originally due at 1900 Madagascar time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a significant army division - referred to as CAPSAT - that helped install Rajoelina in power in 2009 proceeded to challenge him by announcing itself in charge of all the army, while some of its officers joined activists on the streets of the capital, Antananarivo.

Following a gathering of army leaders on Monday, the new Armed Forces Leader designated by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, guaranteed the citizens that the military were working together to maintain order in the island nation.

By Monday late afternoon, the general was at state TV headquarters trying to address the crisis, according to a communication from the administration.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a senior representative in Madagascar's major opposition party revealed that Madagascar was now practically being governed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has additionally said it aims to bring dismissal proceedings against Rajoelina for "neglect of position".

Numerous of Rajoelina's close associates have escaped to nearby Mauritius. They consist of former Government Leader Richard Ravalomanana and the entrepreneur Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

In spite of its rich raw materials, Madagascar is one of the most impoverished countries in the world. About 75% of people there exist below the impoverishment threshold, while information shows approximately one-third of individuals have access to electricity.

The protests started over anger with ongoing water and power outages, then increased to represent broader dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's administration over high unemployment, corruption, and the cost-of-living crisis.

At least 22 people were killed and more than 100 injured in the first few days of the rallies, although the authorities has denied these numbers.

Witnesses report security officers opening fire on demonstrators with real bullets. In an instance, a baby died from respiratory issues after being affected by tear gas.

Madagascar has been shaken by multiple rebellions since it gained independence in 1960, including mass protests in 2009 that pressured then-President Marc Ravalomanana to step down and saw Rajoelina placed into office.

Aged just 34 at the period, Rajoelina became Africa's most youthful leader - proceeding to govern for four years, then resuming to power again after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was born into wealth and, before joining politics, had established himself for himself as an businessman and DJ - establishing a radio station and an advertising company in the process.

But his stylish, young-looking appeal quickly declined, as claims of cronyism and established corruption became persistent.

More on Madagascar's emergency:

  • Regarding the Gen Z demonstrators who aim to force Madagascar's leader from power
  • Military officer named as Madagascar PM to calm Gen Z protests
John Fleming
John Fleming

A passionate storyteller and avid traveler, sharing insights from life's unexpected moments and journeys across the UK and beyond.

October 2025 Blog Roll

September 2025 Blog Roll

August 2025 Blog Roll

July 2025 Blog Roll

June 2025 Blog Roll

Popular Post