Soldiers threaten to take over state TV in Madagascar, presidency says, amid alerts of government overthrow

National crisis in Madagascar
Protesters initiated countrywide rallies calling for a more equitable deal for citizens

Military members have warned to seize the national TV facilities in Madagascar as Head of state Andry Rajoelina was due to make statement to the nation, his staff says, amid unofficial reports that he has left the country.

A foreign military aircraft is believed to have transported Rajoelina from the Indian Ocean island to an secret location, following a fortnight of national protests aimed at kicking him from power.

His unsuccessful efforts to calm young demonstrators - labeled "Gen Z Mada" - saw him dismiss his complete government and make other concessions to without success.

On Sunday, his staff said an attempt was in progress to push him from power. He has not been seen in public since Wednesday.

Rajoelina's planned statement to the nation has been put off multiple times - it was first due at 1900 Madagascar time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a significant army force - referred to as CAPSAT - that supported place Rajoelina in power in 2009 acted to weaken him by announcing itself in command of all the army, while numerous of its personnel supported protesters on the streets of the capital, Antananarivo.

Subsequent to a gathering of army leaders on Monday, the current Chief of Army Staff designated by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, assured the public that the military were cooperating to preserve stability in the country.

By Monday evening, the general was at government TV building trying to settle the situation, according to a communication from the presidential office.

Speaking on condition of privacy, a senior official in Madagascar's biggest rival party revealed that Madagascar was now practically being managed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has additionally said it aims to bring impeachment procedures against Rajoelina for "abandonment of position".

Several of Rajoelina's close associates have escaped to close Mauritius. They include former Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the executive Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

In spite of its rich mineral wealth, Madagascar is among the least wealthy countries in the world. About 75% of people there live below the economic hardship level, while statistics shows about one-third of residents have availability to electricity.

The demonstrations started over anger with frequent water and power outages, then increased to demonstrate broader discontent with Rajoelina's administration over significant unemployment, corruption, and the financial crisis.

At least 22 individuals were killed and in excess of 100 injured in the initial days of the demonstrations, although the authorities has disputed these figures.

Eyewitnesses detail security officers shooting on protesters with live ammunition. In a particular situation, a infant passed away from breathing problems after being subjected to tear gas.

Madagascar has been impacted by multiple uprisings since it gained independence in 1960, including large-scale demonstrations in 2009 that compelled then-President Marc Ravalomanana to step down and saw Rajoelina brought into office.

Aged just 34 at the moment, Rajoelina became Africa's most youthful leader - going on to rule 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 built reputation for himself as an entrepreneur and DJ - setting up a radio station and an advertising company in the process.

But his well-dressed, young-looking appeal quickly declined, as claims of favoritism and established corruption became ongoing.

Further details regarding Madagascar's emergency:

  • About the Gen Z demonstrators who want to force Madagascar's leader from power
  • Army officer named as Madagascar PM to calm Gen Z protests
Jessica Powers
Jessica Powers

A passionate wellness coach and writer dedicated to helping others find joy in everyday life through mindful practices.