Armed forces pledge to take over state TV in Madagascar, leader's administration reports, amid alerts of coup attempt

National turmoil in Madagascar
Young people led countrywide demonstrations insisting on a fairer deal for residents

Armed forces have warned to occupy the state TV headquarters in Madagascar as President Andry Rajoelina was due to speak to the nation, his administration confirms, amid unconfirmed accounts that he has fled the country.

A French military jet is reported to have transported Rajoelina from the Indian Ocean island to an unknown location, following a 14 days of countrywide protests designed to removing him out of power.

His failed attempts to calm young protesters - called "Gen Z Mada" - saw him sack his complete government and make further agreements to unsuccessfully.

On Sunday, his administration said an attempt was under way to force him from power. He has not been seen in open since Wednesday.

Rajoelina's planned speech to the nation has been postponed several times - it was originally scheduled at 1900 local time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a significant army force - known as CAPSAT - that assisted establish Rajoelina in power in 2009 acted to challenge him by declaring itself in charge of all the army, while some of its officers supported protesters on the streets of the main city, Antananarivo.

After a conference of military officers on Monday, the recently appointed Military Commander installed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, assured the citizens that the military were collaborating to keep peace in the state.

By Monday night, the commander was at government TV headquarters working to address the situation, according to a communication from the administration.

Talking on condition of anonymity, a top representative in Madagascar's biggest opposition party informed that Madagascar was now practically being governed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has furthermore announced it aims to bring removal actions against Rajoelina for "abandonment of office".

Multiple of Rajoelina's close associates have departed to nearby Mauritius. They include ex- Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Regardless of its plentiful natural resources, Madagascar is among the poorest countries in the world. About 75% of residents there exist below the economic hardship level, while data shows just over one-third of residents have availability to electricity.

The demonstrations started over anger with frequent water and power interruptions, then intensified to reflect broader unhappiness with Rajoelina's government over high unemployment, corruption, and the financial crisis.

At least 22 people were killed and more than 100 injured in the initial days of the demonstrations, although the government has disputed these figures.

Observers detail police using weapons on civilians with lethal rounds. In an instance, a baby succumbed from breathing problems after being affected by tear gas.

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

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

Rajoelina was coming from wealth and, before pursuing politics, had established himself for himself as an businessman and DJ - establishing a radio station and an advertising company during this period.

But his sharp-suited, baby-faced charm rapidly diminished, as claims of favoritism and entrenched corruption became unshakeable.

Further details regarding Madagascar's emergency:

  • About the Gen Z activists who seek to force Madagascar's head of state from power
  • Military officer designated as Madagascar PM to quell Gen Z rallies
Laura West
Laura West

Fashion enthusiast and urban lifestyle blogger with a passion for sustainable trends and city living.