Soldiers vow to seize national TV in Madagascar, leader's administration says, amid concerns of coup attempt

National unrest in Madagascar
Youth initiated nationwide rallies demanding a more equitable deal for residents

Military members have threatened to take control of the state TV building in Madagascar as President Andry Rajoelina was due to address the nation, his staff says, amid unconfirmed accounts that he has fled the country.

A international military aircraft is reported to have transported Rajoelina from the African island to an undisclosed location, following a two weeks of countrywide rallies designed to kicking him from power.

His failed attempts to appease young demonstrators - dubbed "Gen Z Mada" - saw him dismiss his whole government and make additional agreements to no avail.

On Sunday, his staff said an effort was under way to force him out of power. He has not been observed in visible since Wednesday.

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

Over the weekend, a significant army division - called CAPSAT - that assisted install Rajoelina in power in 2009 proceeded to undermine him by proclaiming itself in control of all the army, while numerous of its officers aligned with activists on the roads of the capital, Antananarivo.

Following a gathering of defense leaders on Monday, the recently appointed Armed Forces Leader installed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, assured the public that the armed services were collaborating to keep order in the country.

By Monday late afternoon, the commander was at government TV headquarters trying to address the emergency, according to a statement from the administration.

Talking on condition of anonymity, a high-ranking representative in Madagascar's largest rival party revealed that Madagascar was now practically being governed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has also stated it intends to bring impeachment actions against Rajoelina for "desertion of post".

Numerous of Rajoelina's top advisors have departed to adjacent Mauritius. They comprise previous Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the entrepreneur Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

In spite of its rich mineral wealth, Madagascar is counted as the poorest countries in the world. About 75% of people there exist below the poverty line, while data shows approximately one-third of residents have access to electricity.

The protests began over dissatisfaction with ongoing water and power interruptions, then intensified to reflect more extensive discontent with Rajoelina's government over high unemployment, corruption, and the cost-of-living crisis.

At least 22 civilians were fatally injured and more than 100 injured in the first few days of the protests, although the administration has denied these statistics.

Witnesses report security officers shooting on demonstrators with live ammunition. In an instance, a infant died from respiratory issues after being subjected to tear gas.

Madagascar has been shaken by multiple protests since it obtained independence in 1960, encompassing mass rallies in 2009 that pressured then-President Marc Ravalomanana to resign and saw Rajoelina ushered into office.

Aged just 34 at the moment, Rajoelina became Africa's least experienced leader - continuing to rule for four years, then returning to power once more after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was coming from wealth and, prior to entering politics, had established himself for himself as an entrepreneur and DJ - establishing a radio station and an advertising company in the process.

But his stylish, baby-faced attraction quickly diminished, as allegations of favoritism and entrenched corruption became unshakeable.

Further details regarding Madagascar's situation:

  • Behind the Gen Z protesters who seek to compel Madagascar's president from power
  • Army officer designated as Madagascar PM to suppress Gen Z rallies
Kathryn Knight
Kathryn Knight

Award-winning journalist with a passion for uncovering stories that shape our world, specializing in tech and social trends.