Soldiers vow to occupy national TV in Madagascar, presidency announces, amid alerts of power grab

Political turmoil in Madagascar
Youth spearheaded countrywide rallies calling for a more equitable deal for citizens

Soldiers have warned to seize the state TV building in Madagascar as Head of state Andry Rajoelina was due to make statement to the nation, his staff reports, amid unofficial reports that he has fled the country.

A foreign military jet is believed to have transported Rajoelina from the Indian Ocean island to an unknown location, following a two weeks of national protests designed to ousting him from power.

His unsuccessful endeavors to appease young demonstrators - called "Gen Z Mada" - saw him fire his entire government and make additional concessions to no avail.

On Sunday, his office said an endeavor was in progress to force him from power. He has not been observed in visible since Wednesday.

Rajoelina's arranged speech to the nation has been delayed multiple times - it was initially due at 1900 Madagascar time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a influential army force - called CAPSAT - that helped install Rajoelina in power in 2009 proceeded to undermine him by announcing itself in charge of all the military, while numerous of its personnel joined protesters on the avenues of the capital, Antananarivo.

Subsequent to a conference of army leaders on Monday, the new Armed Forces Leader installed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, promised the citizens that the security forces were collaborating to maintain order in the country.

By Monday evening, the general was at state TV facilities attempting to settle the crisis, according to a announcement from the presidential office.

Speaking on understanding of confidentiality, a top representative in Madagascar's major opposition party revealed that Madagascar was now essentially being managed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has also said it plans to bring impeachment actions against Rajoelina for "neglect of position".

Several of Rajoelina's top advisors have departed to nearby Mauritius. They consist of ex- Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Despite its plentiful raw materials, Madagascar is counted as the poorest countries in the world. About 75% of people there reside below the poverty line, while information shows about one-third of residents have availability to electricity.

The rallies commenced over frustration with repeated water and power interruptions, then escalated to reflect broader unhappiness with Rajoelina's administration over significant unemployment, corruption, and the economic crisis.

At least 22 people were fatally injured and more than 100 injured in the first few days of the demonstrations, although the administration has rejected these figures.

Witnesses detail police opening fire on demonstrators with real bullets. In an instance, a baby died from smoke inhalation after being affected by tear gas.

Madagascar has been impacted by several rebellions since it gained independence in 1960, encompassing large-scale demonstrations in 2009 that forced then-President Marc Ravalomanana to resign and saw Rajoelina brought into office.

At the age of just 34 at the moment, Rajoelina became Africa's youngest leader - continuing to govern for four years, then returning to power again after the 2018 election.

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

But his stylish, baby-faced attraction quickly waned, as accusations of nepotism and established corruption became unshakeable.

Additional information about Madagascar's situation:

  • About the Gen Z activists who want to compel Madagascar's leader from power
  • Army general named as Madagascar PM to quell Gen Z demonstrations
Brittney Mcclain
Brittney Mcclain

A passionate historian and travel writer dedicated to preserving and sharing the unique heritage of the Amalfi region.