Armed forces vow to take over government TV in Madagascar, leader's administration reports, amid warnings of coup attempt

Government turmoil in Madagascar
Young people led national demonstrations calling for a fairer deal for citizens

Military members have declared intention to take control of the national TV headquarters in Madagascar as President Andry Rajoelina was expected to make statement to the nation, his staff says, amid unofficial accounts that he has departed from the country.

A foreign military aircraft is reported to have airlifted Rajoelina from the Indian Ocean island to an secret location, following a fortnight of nationwide rallies intended to kicking him out of power.

His failed efforts to calm young activists - called "Gen Z Mada" - saw him fire his whole government and make further agreements to no avail.

On Sunday, his administration said an endeavor was in progress to pressure him from power. He has not been seen in open since Wednesday.

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

Over the weekend, a significant army unit - referred to as CAPSAT - that assisted place Rajoelina in power in 2009 proceeded to undermine him by announcing itself in charge of all the army, while some of its officers supported demonstrators on the streets of the main city, Antananarivo.

Following a conference of military officers on Monday, the recently appointed Armed Forces Leader designated by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, promised the people that the security forces were collaborating to maintain order in the country.

By Monday late afternoon, the officer was at state TV building attempting to address the crisis, according to a communication from the presidency.

Speaking on understanding of privacy, a high-ranking representative in Madagascar's largest rival party revealed that Madagascar was now effectively being governed by CAPSAT.

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

Numerous of Rajoelina's close associates have departed to close Mauritius. They consist of ex- Government Leader Richard Ravalomanana and the executive Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

In spite of its plentiful mineral wealth, Madagascar is counted as the poorest countries in the world. About 75% of residents there live below the poverty line, while information shows just over one-third of individuals have access to electricity.

The demonstrations commenced over anger with frequent water and power outages, then intensified to reflect wider dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's government over significant unemployment, corruption, and the financial crisis.

At least 22 people were lost their lives and in excess of 100 wounded in the opening days of the protests, although the government has rejected these figures.

Observers detail security officers using weapons on demonstrators with live ammunition. In a particular situation, a newborn died from breathing problems after being subjected to tear gas.

Madagascar has been shaken by several rebellions since it obtained independence in 1960, comprising mass rallies in 2009 that compelled then-President Marc Ravalomanana to step down and saw Rajoelina placed into office.

Being just 34 at the period, Rajoelina became Africa's most youthful leader - proceeding to lead for four years, then resuming to power a second time after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was born into wealth and, before entering politics, had made a name for himself as an business owner and DJ - establishing a radio station and an advertising company along the way.

But his well-dressed, baby-faced attraction quickly declined, as claims of cronyism and deep-rooted corruption became ongoing.

Further details regarding Madagascar's emergency:

  • About the Gen Z protesters who want to force Madagascar's head of state from power
  • Army commander appointed as Madagascar PM to suppress Gen Z demonstrations
Kevin Moore
Kevin Moore

A seasoned digital nomad and travel writer, sharing insights from years of remote work across continents.