Military personnel vow to seize national TV in Madagascar, leader's administration reports, amid warnings of coup attempt

National crisis in Madagascar
Youth spearheaded countrywide rallies demanding a better deal for citizens

Armed forces have declared intention to occupy the government TV building in Madagascar as President Andry Rajoelina was due to make statement to the nation, his staff reports, amid unofficial information that he has fled the country.

A international military jet is believed to have airlifted Rajoelina from the island island to an unknown location, following a 14 days of countrywide rallies designed to kicking him out of power.

His failed efforts to placate young activists - labeled "Gen Z Mada" - saw him fire his entire government and make further agreements to unsuccessfully.

On Sunday, his administration said an effort was ongoing to pressure him from power. He has not been observed in open since Wednesday.

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

Over the weekend, a significant army unit - called CAPSAT - that supported establish Rajoelina in power in 2009 moved to challenge him by announcing itself in charge of all the army, while numerous of its officers joined activists on the avenues of the capital, Antananarivo.

After a gathering of military leaders on Monday, the new Chief of Army Staff installed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, promised the citizens that the security forces were cooperating to maintain peace in the island nation.

By Monday evening, the commander was at national TV headquarters working to settle the situation, according to a communication from the presidential office.

Talking on condition of privacy, a high-ranking representative in Madagascar's major opposition party revealed that Madagascar was now essentially being run by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has also said it plans to bring impeachment proceedings against Rajoelina for "desertion of post".

Several of Rajoelina's close associates have departed to adjacent Mauritius. They comprise former Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Despite its abundant raw materials, Madagascar is one of the least wealthy countries in the world. About 75% of people there live below the impoverishment threshold, while statistics shows about one-third of individuals have availability to electricity.

The demonstrations started over dissatisfaction with frequent water and power cuts, then increased to demonstrate more extensive discontent with Rajoelina's regime over elevated unemployment, corruption, and the economic crisis.

At least 22 individuals were fatally injured and more than 100 injured in the first few days of the demonstrations, although the government has disputed these numbers.

Observers detail police shooting on civilians with live ammunition. In a particular situation, a infant died from breathing problems after being exposed to tear gas.

Madagascar has been shaken by several protests since it gained independence in 1960, including extensive rallies in 2009 that compelled then-President Marc Ravalomanana to resign and saw Rajoelina placed into office.

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

Rajoelina was raised in wealth and, prior to entering politics, had made a name for himself as an businessman and DJ - establishing a radio station and an advertising company during this period.

But his well-dressed, young-looking charm quickly declined, as claims of cronyism and deep-rooted corruption became persistent.

More on Madagascar's crisis:

  • Behind the Gen Z demonstrators who want to force Madagascar's leader from power
  • Military commander appointed as Madagascar PM to calm Gen Z protests
Adam Johnson
Adam Johnson

A Prague-based writer and analyst with a passion for Czech history and current affairs.