Armed forces pledge to take over government TV in Madagascar, presidency announces, amid warnings of power grab

National crisis in Madagascar
Protesters spearheaded nationwide rallies calling for a fairer deal for the population

Military members have declared intention to occupy the government TV facilities in Madagascar as Leader Andry Rajoelina was expected to address the nation, his staff says, amid unofficial reports that he has left the country.

A foreign military plane is believed to have transported Rajoelina from the African island to an secret location, following a two weeks of national demonstrations intended to ousting him from power.

His ineffective attempts to placate young activists - labeled "Gen Z Mada" - saw him fire his entire government and make further concessions to without success.

On Sunday, his office said an attempt was in progress to force him out of power. He has not been spotted in public since Wednesday.

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

Over the weekend, a significant army division - called CAPSAT - that supported install Rajoelina in power in 2009 acted to undermine him by declaring itself in control of all the military, while numerous of its members aligned with activists on the streets of the main city, Antananarivo.

Subsequent to a meeting of defense officers on Monday, the new Military Commander appointed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, guaranteed the citizens that the armed services were collaborating to maintain peace in the country.

By Monday evening, the officer was at state TV building working to resolve the crisis, according to a statement from the administration.

Talking on condition of anonymity, a high-ranking leader in Madagascar's major competing party revealed that Madagascar was now practically being managed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has additionally said it aims to bring impeachment procedures against Rajoelina for "abandonment of post".

Numerous of Rajoelina's top advisors have escaped to nearby Mauritius. They comprise ex- Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

In spite of its rich natural resources, Madagascar is one of the most impoverished countries in the world. About 75% of people there reside below the impoverishment threshold, while information shows just over one-third of people have access to electricity.

The rallies commenced over anger with ongoing water and power cuts, then intensified to demonstrate more extensive discontent with Rajoelina's regime over high unemployment, corruption, and the financial crisis.

At least 22 individuals were fatally injured and more than 100 injured in the opening days of the demonstrations, although the administration has denied these statistics.

Eyewitnesses detail law enforcement shooting on civilians with lethal rounds. In a particular situation, a infant succumbed from breathing problems after being affected by tear gas.

Madagascar has been impacted by numerous rebellions since it achieved independence in 1960, comprising mass protests in 2009 that compelled then-President Marc Ravalomanana to leave office and saw Rajoelina brought into office.

Being just 34 at the moment, Rajoelina became Africa's youngest leader - going on to rule for four years, then coming back to power again after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was born into wealth and, earlier than entering politics, had built reputation for himself as an business owner and DJ - creating a radio station and an advertising company in the process.

But his sharp-suited, young-looking attraction soon diminished, as accusations of cronyism and established corruption became unshakeable.

More on Madagascar's situation:

  • Regarding the Gen Z activists who want to pressure Madagascar's president from power
  • Military general appointed as Madagascar PM to suppress Gen Z rallies
Stephanie Bolton
Stephanie Bolton

A clinical psychologist and mindfulness coach with over a decade of experience in mental health advocacy.