Soldiers pledge to take over government TV in Madagascar, presidency reports, amid concerns of coup attempt

National turmoil in Madagascar
Young people spearheaded national demonstrations calling for a fairer deal for citizens

Military members have warned to seize the national TV headquarters in Madagascar as Leader Andry Rajoelina was scheduled to make statement to the nation, his office reports, amid unverified reports that he has fled the country.

A foreign military jet is said to have evacuated Rajoelina from the African island to an secret location, following a two weeks of countrywide protests aimed at kicking him out of power.

His failed efforts to placate young demonstrators - called "Gen Z Mada" - saw him dismiss his entire government and make further concessions to unsuccessfully.

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

Rajoelina's scheduled address to the nation has been delayed numerous times - it was initially due at 1900 national time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a influential army unit - known as CAPSAT - that helped place Rajoelina in power in 2009 acted to undermine him by proclaiming itself in command of all the armed forces, while numerous of its members aligned with activists on the streets of the capital, Antananarivo.

Subsequent to a gathering of defense commanders on Monday, the current Chief of Army Staff appointed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, promised the public that the security forces were cooperating to preserve order in the island nation.

By Monday late afternoon, the commander was at state TV facilities attempting to resolve the crisis, according to a statement from the presidential office.

Talking on condition of confidentiality, a top official in Madagascar's biggest opposition party informed that Madagascar was now effectively being managed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has additionally announced it aims to bring impeachment procedures against Rajoelina for "neglect of office".

Multiple of Rajoelina's top advisors have departed to adjacent Mauritius. They include previous Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the executive Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Despite its rich mineral wealth, Madagascar is among the most impoverished countries in the world. About 75% of residents there exist below the poverty line, while data shows about one-third of residents have opportunity to electricity.

The demonstrations began over frustration with ongoing water and power interruptions, then escalated to represent broader dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's government over elevated unemployment, corruption, and the economic crisis.

At least 22 civilians were killed and over 100 wounded in the initial days of the demonstrations, although the administration has rejected these statistics.

Eyewitnesses describe law enforcement opening fire on civilians with live ammunition. In an instance, a infant succumbed from smoke inhalation after being affected by tear gas.

Madagascar has been impacted by several rebellions since it achieved independence in 1960, including extensive protests in 2009 that pressured then-President Marc Ravalomanana to resign and saw Rajoelina ushered into office.

Being just 34 at the time, Rajoelina became Africa's least experienced leader - proceeding to rule for four years, then returning to power a second time after the 2018 election.

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

But his sharp-suited, baby-faced appeal rapidly waned, as claims of favoritism and established corruption became persistent.

More on Madagascar's emergency:

  • Behind the Gen Z activists who seek to pressure Madagascar's head of state from power
  • Army commander designated as Madagascar PM to suppress Gen Z demonstrations
Alyssa Doyle
Alyssa Doyle

A crypto enthusiast and gaming expert with a passion for blockchain technology and fair play.