Military personnel vow to take over national TV in Madagascar, presidency reports, amid concerns of government overthrow

Government turmoil in Madagascar
Youth spearheaded countrywide rallies demanding a more equitable deal for citizens

Armed forces have declared intention to seize the national TV facilities in Madagascar as President Andry Rajoelina was scheduled to address the nation, his administration says, amid unofficial reports that he has departed from the country.

A international military jet is reported to have transported Rajoelina from the African island to an unknown location, following a fortnight of nationwide demonstrations aimed at ousting him from power.

His ineffective efforts to calm young demonstrators - called "Gen Z Mada" - saw him fire his complete government and make additional compromises to unsuccessfully.

On Sunday, his administration said an attempt was in progress to push him out of power. He has not been spotted in visible since Wednesday.

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

Over the weekend, a powerful army force - called CAPSAT - that helped establish Rajoelina in power in 2009 proceeded to weaken him by declaring itself in command of all the military, while several of its personnel aligned with demonstrators on the roads of the capital, Antananarivo.

Following a conference of defense officers on Monday, the current Armed Forces Leader designated by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, promised the public that the military were working together to preserve peace in the country.

By Monday late afternoon, the officer was at state TV building attempting to settle the situation, according to a announcement from the administration.

Talking on basis of confidentiality, a top representative in Madagascar's largest opposition party revealed that Madagascar was now practically being managed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has additionally stated it aims to bring removal procedures against Rajoelina for "neglect of office".

Multiple of Rajoelina's close associates have escaped to close Mauritius. They include previous Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the executive Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

Despite its rich natural resources, Madagascar is counted as the poorest countries in the world. About 75% of people there exist below the economic hardship level, while statistics shows approximately one-third of individuals have availability to electricity.

The demonstrations began over dissatisfaction with ongoing water and power outages, then increased to reflect wider discontent with Rajoelina's government over high unemployment, corruption, and the financial crisis.

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

Witnesses report security officers using weapons on civilians with real bullets. In a particular situation, a baby succumbed from respiratory issues after being subjected to tear gas.

Madagascar has been rocked by multiple rebellions since it achieved independence in 1960, comprising mass rallies in 2009 that forced then-President Marc Ravalomanana to leave office and saw Rajoelina ushered into office.

Being just 34 at the moment, Rajoelina became Africa's most youthful leader - continuing to lead for four years, then coming back to power again after the 2018 election.

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

But his stylish, baby-faced attraction quickly diminished, as claims of favoritism and established corruption became ongoing.

Further details regarding Madagascar's emergency:

  • About the Gen Z activists who want to pressure Madagascar's president from power
  • Military general appointed as Madagascar PM to quell Gen Z protests
Dawn Bennett
Dawn Bennett

Tech enthusiast and writer passionate about emerging technologies and their impact on society.