Armed forces threaten to take over national TV in Madagascar, presidential office reports, amid warnings of power grab

Government crisis in Madagascar
Protesters spearheaded nationwide protests calling for a better deal for residents

Military members have warned to occupy the government TV building in Madagascar as Head of state Andry Rajoelina was expected to make statement to the nation, his staff reports, amid unverified accounts that he has left the country.

A international military jet is said to have transported Rajoelina from the island island to an unknown location, following a fortnight of nationwide protests designed to removing him from power.

His ineffective efforts to appease young protesters - called "Gen Z Mada" - saw him dismiss his entire government and make additional compromises to without success.

On Sunday, his staff said an attempt was under way to pressure him from power. He has not been spotted in visible since Wednesday.

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

Over the weekend, a powerful army unit - referred to as CAPSAT - that helped place Rajoelina in power in 2009 proceeded to challenge him by announcing itself in command of all the army, while some of its officers joined protesters on the streets of the main city, Antananarivo.

After a gathering of army officers on Monday, the recently appointed Chief of Army Staff installed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, assured the citizens that the military were working together to maintain order in the island nation.

By Monday late afternoon, the officer was at government TV facilities trying to settle the crisis, according to a communication from the presidency.

Talking on basis of anonymity, a high-ranking official in Madagascar's major rival party informed that Madagascar was now effectively being managed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has furthermore said it aims to bring impeachment proceedings against Rajoelina for "desertion of position".

Multiple of Rajoelina's inner circle have escaped to close Mauritius. They comprise previous Government Leader Richard Ravalomanana and the entrepreneur Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Regardless of its abundant mineral wealth, Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world. About 75% of residents there exist below the economic hardship level, while statistics shows approximately one-third of individuals have availability to electricity.

The rallies began over dissatisfaction with frequent water and power interruptions, then increased to reflect wider unhappiness with Rajoelina's government over significant unemployment, corruption, and the financial crisis.

At least 22 individuals were lost their lives and in excess of 100 wounded in the opening days of the rallies, although the administration has rejected these numbers.

Observers report law enforcement opening fire on demonstrators with live ammunition. In a particular situation, a infant died from breathing problems after being exposed to tear gas.

Madagascar has been impacted by multiple uprisings since it obtained independence in 1960, encompassing large-scale protests in 2009 that compelled then-President Marc Ravalomanana to leave office and saw Rajoelina ushered into office.

At the age of just 34 at the time, Rajoelina became Africa's most youthful leader - going on to rule for four years, then coming back to power again after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was coming from wealth and, prior to joining politics, had built reputation for himself as an entrepreneur and DJ - setting up a radio station and an advertising company in the process.

But his sharp-suited, baby-faced appeal soon diminished, as accusations of favoritism and deep-rooted corruption became unshakeable.

Further details regarding Madagascar's crisis:

  • Regarding the Gen Z demonstrators who aim to compel Madagascar's leader from power
  • Army general appointed as Madagascar PM to quell Gen Z rallies
Dr. Margaret Moore MD
Dr. Margaret Moore MD

A seasoned financial analyst with over a decade of experience in wealth management and market trends.