Military personnel vow to take over national TV in Madagascar, presidential office reports, amid concerns of government overthrow

National crisis in Madagascar
Protesters spearheaded countrywide demonstrations demanding a fairer deal for citizens

Armed forces have warned to take control of the state TV headquarters in Madagascar as Leader Andry Rajoelina was due to make statement to the nation, his staff reports, amid unverified accounts that he has fled the country.

A foreign military jet is believed to have airlifted Rajoelina from the island island to an undisclosed location, following a 14 days of countrywide protests intended to ousting him from power.

His ineffective attempts to calm young activists - called "Gen Z Mada" - saw him sack his entire government and make additional agreements to no avail.

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

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

Over the weekend, a influential army force - referred to as CAPSAT - that assisted establish Rajoelina in power in 2009 moved to challenge him by proclaiming itself in command of all the military, while some of its officers supported protesters on the streets of the capital, Antananarivo.

After a conference of defense commanders on Monday, the current Military Commander designated by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, guaranteed the citizens that the security forces were working together to maintain stability in the state.

By Monday night, the commander was at government TV headquarters working to resolve the situation, according to a announcement from the presidential office.

Talking on condition of anonymity, a senior representative in Madagascar's largest opposition party revealed that Madagascar was now essentially being governed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has furthermore said it intends to bring dismissal proceedings against Rajoelina for "abandonment of post".

Several of Rajoelina's inner circle have escaped to nearby Mauritius. They comprise ex- Cabinet Head Richard Ravalomanana and the executive Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Despite its plentiful natural resources, Madagascar is one of the least wealthy countries in the world. About 75% of residents there live below the economic hardship level, while information shows just over one-third of residents have availability to electricity.

The demonstrations began over anger with frequent water and power interruptions, then intensified to reflect more extensive dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's government over elevated unemployment, corruption, and the economic crisis.

At least 22 individuals were killed and more than 100 injured in the opening days of the demonstrations, although the authorities has rejected these figures.

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

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

At the age of just 34 at the period, Rajoelina became Africa's least experienced leader - proceeding to lead for four years, then returning to power again after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was coming from wealth and, before pursuing politics, had built reputation for himself as an businessman and DJ - creating a radio station and an advertising company in the process.

But his well-dressed, young-looking charm soon waned, as allegations of cronyism and established corruption became persistent.

Further details regarding Madagascar's crisis:

  • Behind the Gen Z activists who aim to force Madagascar's head of state from power
  • Military commander designated as Madagascar PM to calm Gen Z rallies
Tony Miller
Tony Miller

A passionate writer and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, sharing insights and fostering community through personal narratives.