Military personnel pledge to occupy government TV in Madagascar, presidency reports, amid alerts of coup attempt

National crisis in Madagascar
Youth spearheaded nationwide demonstrations demanding a fairer deal for the population

Soldiers have declared intention to occupy the state TV headquarters in Madagascar as Head of state Andry Rajoelina was scheduled to make statement to the nation, his office says, amid unconfirmed information that he has fled the country.

A French military jet is reported to have airlifted Rajoelina from the Indian Ocean island to an secret location, following a fortnight of countrywide protests designed to ousting him out of power.

His failed endeavors to placate young protesters - called "Gen Z Mada" - saw him fire his complete government and make other agreements to unsuccessfully.

On Sunday, his administration said an attempt was in progress to push him out of power. He has not been observed in open since Wednesday.

Rajoelina's arranged statement to the nation has been put off numerous times - it was originally due at 1900 national time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a powerful army force - known as CAPSAT - that helped install Rajoelina in power in 2009 moved to challenge him by proclaiming itself in charge of all the armed forces, while numerous of its members supported activists on the streets of the capital, Antananarivo.

Subsequent to a gathering of military leaders on Monday, the current Chief of Army Staff installed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, promised the public that the armed services were cooperating to preserve stability in the state.

By Monday late afternoon, the officer was at state TV headquarters working to settle the situation, according to a statement from the presidential office.

Communicating on basis of anonymity, a high-ranking official in Madagascar's largest competing party informed that Madagascar was now practically being managed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has additionally announced it intends to bring dismissal actions against Rajoelina for "desertion of position".

Several of Rajoelina's top advisors have fled to nearby Mauritius. They consist of previous Cabinet Head Richard Ravalomanana and the executive Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Regardless of its abundant natural resources, Madagascar is counted as the poorest countries in the world. About 75% of people there reside below the poverty line, while statistics shows about one-third of residents have opportunity to electricity.

The demonstrations began over anger with frequent water and power cuts, then intensified to represent wider dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's government over elevated unemployment, corruption, and the cost-of-living crisis.

At least 22 individuals were killed and in excess of 100 injured in the opening days of the rallies, although the administration has disputed these statistics.

Witnesses detail security officers shooting on protesters with live ammunition. In an instance, a infant succumbed from breathing problems after being affected by tear gas.

Madagascar has been impacted by several rebellions since it achieved independence in 1960, encompassing extensive demonstrations in 2009 that pressured then-President Marc Ravalomanana to step down and saw Rajoelina brought into office.

Being just 34 at the time, Rajoelina became Africa's least experienced leader - continuing to govern for four years, then resuming to power again after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was raised in wealth and, prior to joining politics, had established himself for himself as an entrepreneur and DJ - establishing a radio station and an advertising company during this period.

But his well-dressed, youthful charm soon declined, as claims of cronyism and entrenched corruption became unshakeable.

Further details regarding Madagascar's situation:

  • Behind the Gen Z protesters who aim to compel Madagascar's president from power
  • Military general appointed as Madagascar PM to calm Gen Z rallies
David Kramer
David Kramer

A passionate barista and coffee blogger with over a decade of experience in specialty coffee and sustainable sourcing.