Armed forces threaten to seize national TV in Madagascar, leader's administration announces, amid warnings of power grab

Political unrest in Madagascar
Youth spearheaded nationwide protests insisting on a better deal for residents

Military members have declared intention to occupy the state TV building in Madagascar as Leader Andry Rajoelina was scheduled to speak to the nation, his staff confirms, amid unofficial information that he has departed from the country.

A foreign military plane is reported to have transported Rajoelina from the Indian Ocean island to an undisclosed location, following a two weeks of national rallies designed to ousting him out of power.

His unsuccessful efforts to appease young activists - dubbed "Gen Z Mada" - saw him fire his complete government and make other concessions to unsuccessfully.

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

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

Over the weekend, a influential army unit - called CAPSAT - that assisted establish Rajoelina in power in 2009 acted to undermine him by declaring itself in command of all the armed forces, while numerous of its personnel joined demonstrators on the avenues of the capital, Antananarivo.

Following a conference of military officers on Monday, the recently appointed Military Commander appointed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, assured the people that the armed services were working together to preserve stability in the state.

By Monday night, the commander was at national TV building trying to settle the crisis, according to a statement from the presidential office.

Communicating on basis of privacy, a high-ranking leader in Madagascar's largest competing party revealed that Madagascar was now practically being run by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has additionally stated it plans to bring dismissal procedures against Rajoelina for "neglect of post".

Several of Rajoelina's inner circle have departed to adjacent Mauritius. They include former Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Regardless of its plentiful mineral wealth, Madagascar is counted as the poorest countries in the world. About 75% of people there exist below the poverty line, while information shows approximately one-third of residents have opportunity to electricity.

The protests commenced over anger with repeated water and power cuts, then increased to reflect more extensive dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's administration over high unemployment, corruption, and the cost-of-living crisis.

At least 22 civilians were killed and more than 100 wounded in the opening days of the protests, although the administration has disputed these statistics.

Eyewitnesses detail security officers shooting on civilians with real bullets. In an instance, a baby succumbed from respiratory issues after being affected by tear gas.

Madagascar has been shaken by numerous uprisings since it gained independence in 1960, including mass protests in 2009 that compelled then-President Marc Ravalomanana to leave office and saw Rajoelina ushered into office.

Aged just 34 at the period, Rajoelina became Africa's least experienced leader - proceeding to govern for four years, then resuming to power a second time after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was born into wealth and, prior to entering politics, had built reputation for himself as an businessman and DJ - setting up a radio station and an advertising company in the process.

But his sharp-suited, youthful appeal quickly declined, as claims of nepotism and established corruption became persistent.

Further details regarding Madagascar's crisis:

  • About the Gen Z activists who aim to force Madagascar's president from power
  • Defense commander designated as Madagascar PM to quell Gen Z protests
Carl Beltran
Carl Beltran

A passionate urban enthusiast and writer, sharing experiences and advice on community building and local life in Australia.