Soldiers vow to seize state TV in Madagascar, leader's administration says, amid warnings of power grab

National unrest in Madagascar
Young people led countrywide demonstrations insisting on a more equitable deal for the population

Military members have threatened to seize the government TV facilities in Madagascar as President Andry Rajoelina was expected to address the nation, his office says, amid unofficial information that he has fled the country.

A foreign military plane is believed to have transported Rajoelina from the Indian Ocean island to an undisclosed location, following a 14 days of countrywide protests aimed at ousting him from power.

His failed attempts to calm young protesters - dubbed "Gen Z Mada" - saw him sack his whole government and make additional agreements to unsuccessfully.

On Sunday, his staff said an effort was in progress to pressure him out of power. He has not been spotted in visible since Wednesday.

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

Over the weekend, a influential army force - known as CAPSAT - that helped place Rajoelina in power in 2009 moved to challenge him by proclaiming itself in command of all the army, while several of its personnel joined protesters on the avenues of the capital, Antananarivo.

Subsequent to a meeting of army commanders on Monday, the new Armed Forces Leader designated by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, promised the public that the armed services were working together to keep order in the country.

By Monday late afternoon, the officer was at national TV headquarters working to resolve the crisis, according to a communication from the presidency.

Talking on condition of privacy, a top official in Madagascar's major rival party told that Madagascar was now practically being managed by CAPSAT.

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

Multiple of Rajoelina's inner circle have escaped to close Mauritius. They consist of ex- Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the entrepreneur Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Despite its abundant natural resources, Madagascar is counted as the least wealthy countries in the world. About 75% of people there exist below the impoverishment threshold, while data shows just over one-third of people have opportunity to electricity.

The protests began over anger with repeated water and power outages, then intensified to reflect broader dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's administration over significant unemployment, corruption, and the financial crisis.

At least 22 individuals were killed and over 100 injured in the opening days of the protests, although the authorities has disputed these numbers.

Witnesses detail law enforcement opening fire on civilians with lethal rounds. In a particular situation, a newborn passed away from smoke inhalation after being affected by tear gas.

Madagascar has been shaken by several protests since it obtained independence in 1960, comprising large-scale demonstrations in 2009 that pressured then-President Marc Ravalomanana to step down and saw Rajoelina placed into office.

Aged just 34 at the period, Rajoelina became Africa's most youthful leader - continuing to rule for four years, then returning to power once more after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was raised in wealth and, prior to pursuing politics, had built reputation for himself as an entrepreneur and DJ - setting up a radio station and an advertising company during this period.

But his stylish, youthful attraction soon diminished, as allegations of favoritism and established corruption became unshakeable.

Additional information about Madagascar's emergency:

  • About the Gen Z activists who aim to compel Madagascar's president from power
  • Defense commander appointed as Madagascar PM to quell Gen Z demonstrations
Valerie Thompson
Valerie Thompson

Tech journalist and digital strategist with a passion for exploring emerging technologies and their impact on society.

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