Armed forces threaten to occupy national TV in Madagascar, presidency reports, amid alerts of government overthrow

Government turmoil in Madagascar
Young people initiated national rallies insisting on a fairer deal for residents

Armed forces have warned to occupy the government TV facilities in Madagascar as Leader Andry Rajoelina was due to address the nation, his staff says, amid unconfirmed reports that he has fled the country.

A international military plane is believed to have evacuated Rajoelina from the island island to an unknown location, following a two weeks of nationwide demonstrations aimed at kicking him out of power.

His failed endeavors to calm young protesters - dubbed "Gen Z Mada" - saw him sack his entire government and make additional agreements to without success.

On Sunday, his staff said an effort was under way to push him from power. He has not been spotted in public since Wednesday.

Rajoelina's planned speech to the nation has been delayed numerous times - it was originally planned at 1900 national time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a influential army unit - referred to as CAPSAT - that supported install Rajoelina in power in 2009 acted to undermine him by announcing itself in control of all the armed forces, while several of its personnel aligned with activists on the roads of the capital, Antananarivo.

Subsequent to a gathering of military leaders on Monday, the recently appointed Armed Forces Leader installed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, assured the citizens that the security forces were cooperating to maintain stability in the state.

By Monday night, the officer was at state TV headquarters working to address the situation, according to a communication from the presidency.

Communicating on condition of confidentiality, a high-ranking representative in Madagascar's largest rival party informed that Madagascar was now practically being managed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has furthermore announced it aims to bring impeachment proceedings against Rajoelina for "abandonment of post".

Several of Rajoelina's top advisors have escaped to nearby Mauritius. They consist of former Government Leader Richard Ravalomanana and the executive Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

In spite of its plentiful mineral wealth, Madagascar is counted as the least wealthy countries in the world. About 75% of citizens there live below the poverty line, while statistics shows approximately one-third of residents have access to electricity.

The demonstrations commenced over frustration with repeated water and power cuts, then increased to demonstrate more extensive unhappiness with Rajoelina's government over significant unemployment, corruption, and the economic crisis.

At least 22 civilians were lost their lives and in excess of 100 injured in the opening days of the protests, although the authorities has rejected these statistics.

Witnesses report law enforcement opening fire on civilians with live ammunition. In a particular situation, a newborn succumbed from smoke inhalation after being subjected to tear gas.

Madagascar has been impacted by numerous rebellions since it obtained independence in 1960, encompassing extensive protests in 2009 that pressured then-President Marc Ravalomanana to leave office and saw Rajoelina brought into office.

Aged just 34 at the time, Rajoelina became Africa's youngest leader - going on to lead for four years, then resuming to power a second time after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was coming from wealth and, prior to joining politics, had built reputation for himself as an entrepreneur and DJ - establishing a radio station and an advertising company during this period.

But his stylish, baby-faced appeal soon diminished, as claims of favoritism and entrenched corruption became persistent.

Additional information about Madagascar's situation:

  • Behind the Gen Z demonstrators who want to force Madagascar's president from power
  • Army commander appointed as Madagascar PM to quell Gen Z demonstrations
Manuel Morales
Manuel Morales

A seasoned gaming enthusiast and writer, Aria specializes in reviewing online casinos and sharing expert tips for maximizing player experiences.