Military personnel vow to take over government TV in Madagascar, presidency announces, amid alerts of power grab

National crisis in Madagascar
Protesters spearheaded nationwide demonstrations insisting on a more equitable deal for citizens

Armed forces have warned to occupy the government TV building in Madagascar as President Andry Rajoelina was scheduled to speak to the nation, his staff says, amid unofficial accounts that he has left the country.

A international military plane is said to have airlifted Rajoelina from the Indian Ocean island to an unknown location, following a two weeks of countrywide protests aimed at ousting him from power.

His ineffective endeavors to placate young protesters - called "Gen Z Mada" - saw him sack his complete government and make other agreements to without success.

On Sunday, his administration said an effort was under way 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 multiple times - it was originally scheduled at 1900 Madagascar time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a influential army force - referred to as CAPSAT - that helped establish Rajoelina in power in 2009 moved to undermine him by announcing itself in charge of all the military, while numerous of its members supported demonstrators on the streets of the main city, Antananarivo.

Subsequent to a gathering of military leaders on Monday, the recently appointed Chief of Army Staff appointed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, promised the people that the armed services were cooperating to keep peace in the state.

By Monday late afternoon, the officer was at state TV building working to settle the emergency, according to a announcement from the administration.

Communicating on condition of confidentiality, a senior leader in Madagascar's largest competing party revealed that Madagascar was now practically being governed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has also said it aims to bring impeachment proceedings against Rajoelina for "abandonment of office".

Several of Rajoelina's close associates have departed to nearby Mauritius. They consist of ex- Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the entrepreneur Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Despite its plentiful raw materials, Madagascar is one of the most impoverished countries in the world. About 75% of residents there live below the economic hardship level, while information shows about one-third of people have availability to electricity.

The rallies began over frustration with frequent water and power interruptions, then intensified to represent wider unhappiness with Rajoelina's government over significant unemployment, corruption, and the cost-of-living crisis.

At least 22 individuals were fatally injured and over 100 wounded in the opening days of the protests, although the government has rejected these figures.

Witnesses describe security officers opening fire on protesters with real bullets. In an instance, a newborn died from breathing problems after being subjected to tear gas.

Madagascar has been shaken by multiple rebellions since it gained independence in 1960, encompassing large-scale rallies in 2009 that compelled then-President Marc Ravalomanana to step down and saw Rajoelina placed into office.

Aged just 34 at the time, Rajoelina became Africa's least experienced leader - continuing to lead for four years, then coming back to power a second time after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was raised in wealth and, earlier than entering politics, had made a name for himself as an businessman and DJ - creating a radio station and an advertising company during this period.

But his well-dressed, young-looking charm rapidly diminished, as claims of nepotism and deep-rooted corruption became persistent.

Further details regarding Madagascar's crisis:

  • Behind the Gen Z demonstrators who want to force Madagascar's president from power
  • Defense commander designated as Madagascar PM to calm Gen Z protests
Shane Smith
Shane Smith

A passionate environmental technologist and writer, dedicated to exploring how innovation can drive sustainability and positive change.