Soldiers pledge to take over government TV in Madagascar, presidency says, amid concerns of government overthrow

National crisis in Madagascar
Youth spearheaded nationwide demonstrations calling for a better deal for the population

Armed forces have warned to seize the state TV building in Madagascar as Leader Andry Rajoelina was scheduled to speak to the nation, his administration says, amid unofficial reports that he has left the country.

A French military jet is reported to have transported Rajoelina from the African island to an secret location, following a 14 days of nationwide protests aimed at removing him out of power.

His unsuccessful efforts to calm young demonstrators - dubbed "Gen Z Mada" - saw him dismiss his whole government and make other agreements to without success.

On Sunday, his staff said an endeavor was under way to force him from power. He has not been spotted in open since Wednesday.

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

Over the weekend, a influential army force - called CAPSAT - that supported place Rajoelina in power in 2009 proceeded to weaken him by proclaiming itself in command of all the army, while several of its members supported activists on the avenues of the main city, Antananarivo.

Following a conference of defense commanders on Monday, the current Chief of Army Staff installed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, assured the public that the security forces were working together to preserve peace in the island nation.

By Monday evening, the general was at national TV building trying to address the crisis, according to a statement from the presidency.

Speaking on basis of anonymity, a top leader in Madagascar's major opposition party informed that Madagascar was now essentially being managed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has furthermore announced it aims to bring removal actions against Rajoelina for "desertion of post".

Multiple of Rajoelina's close associates have departed to nearby Mauritius. They comprise former Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and the entrepreneur Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

In spite of its abundant natural resources, Madagascar is one of the least wealthy countries in the world. About 75% of people there live below the economic hardship level, while information shows about one-third of individuals have opportunity to electricity.

The rallies commenced over anger with frequent water and power cuts, then increased to reflect broader dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's regime over significant unemployment, corruption, and the economic crisis.

At least 22 individuals were fatally injured and in excess of 100 injured in the first few days of the rallies, although the authorities has disputed these figures.

Eyewitnesses detail security officers using weapons on protesters with lethal rounds. In a particular situation, a newborn passed away from smoke inhalation after being exposed to tear gas.

Madagascar has been shaken by multiple rebellions since it gained independence in 1960, including large-scale protests in 2009 that forced then-President Marc Ravalomanana to resign and saw Rajoelina placed into office.

At the age of just 34 at the moment, Rajoelina became Africa's youngest leader - going on to rule for four years, then returning to power a second time after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was raised in wealth and, prior to pursuing 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 well-dressed, young-looking attraction rapidly diminished, as allegations of cronyism and deep-rooted corruption became unshakeable.

Further details regarding Madagascar's crisis:

  • About the Gen Z protesters who want to compel Madagascar's leader from power
  • Defense officer designated as Madagascar PM to calm Gen Z rallies
James Reed
James Reed

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