Military personnel threaten to seize state TV in Madagascar, leader's administration reports, amid warnings of government overthrow

Political crisis in Madagascar
Youth spearheaded nationwide protests demanding a better deal for citizens

Military members have declared intention to seize the state TV building in Madagascar as Head of state Andry Rajoelina was due to address the nation, his administration says, amid unverified reports that he has departed from the country.

A international military plane is said to have airlifted Rajoelina from the island island to an secret location, following a two weeks of countrywide protests intended to kicking him from power.

His ineffective efforts to placate young activists - dubbed "Gen Z Mada" - saw him fire his complete government and make additional agreements to without success.

On Sunday, his staff said an effort was under way to force him from power. He has not been observed in visible since Wednesday.

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

Over the weekend, a significant army unit - known as CAPSAT - that assisted establish Rajoelina in power in 2009 moved to challenge him by proclaiming itself in command of all the military, while several of its officers supported protesters on the roads of the main city, Antananarivo.

After a meeting of army commanders on Monday, the current Chief of Army Staff designated by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, promised the citizens that the military were collaborating to maintain peace in the state.

By Monday evening, the commander was at government TV headquarters trying to resolve the situation, according to a announcement from the presidential office.

Speaking on basis of confidentiality, a high-ranking representative in Madagascar's major opposition party revealed that Madagascar was now practically being governed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has furthermore said it plans to bring dismissal procedures against Rajoelina for "abandonment of position".

Multiple of Rajoelina's close associates have fled to adjacent Mauritius. They consist of ex- Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the entrepreneur Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Regardless of its rich natural resources, Madagascar is counted as the most impoverished countries in the world. About 75% of people there reside below the economic hardship level, while data shows approximately one-third of people have access to electricity.

The demonstrations began over anger with frequent water and power outages, then intensified to represent more extensive discontent with Rajoelina's regime over high unemployment, corruption, and the economic crisis.

At least 22 people were fatally injured and more than 100 injured in the initial days of the demonstrations, although the administration has rejected these figures.

Observers detail law enforcement using weapons on civilians with real bullets. In an instance, a newborn died from breathing problems after being affected by tear gas.

Madagascar has been shaken by multiple rebellions since it achieved independence in 1960, encompassing large-scale demonstrations in 2009 that pressured then-President Marc Ravalomanana to step down and saw Rajoelina ushered into office.

Aged just 34 at the moment, Rajoelina became Africa's least experienced leader - going on to lead for four years, then resuming to power again after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was coming from wealth and, before entering politics, had made a name for himself as an entrepreneur and DJ - setting up a radio station and an advertising company during this period.

But his sharp-suited, baby-faced attraction soon waned, as claims of cronyism and entrenched corruption became ongoing.

More on Madagascar's emergency:

  • Behind the Gen Z demonstrators who seek to compel Madagascar's president from power
  • Defense commander appointed as Madagascar PM to calm Gen Z rallies
Lauren Freeman
Lauren Freeman

A philosopher and writer passionate about exploring existential questions and sharing insights on modern thought.