Soldiers vow to take over government TV in Madagascar, presidential office says, amid concerns of power grab

National crisis in Madagascar
Protesters led countrywide demonstrations calling for a more equitable deal for residents

Soldiers have declared intention to occupy the national TV headquarters in Madagascar as Head of state Andry Rajoelina was expected to make statement to the nation, his administration reports, amid unofficial accounts that he has left the country.

A foreign military jet is said to have evacuated Rajoelina from the African island to an unknown location, following a fortnight of national rallies aimed at removing him out of power.

His unsuccessful attempts to appease young activists - dubbed "Gen Z Mada" - saw him sack his entire government and make additional compromises to without success.

On Sunday, his staff said an endeavor was ongoing to pressure him out of power. He has not been spotted in public since Wednesday.

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

Over the weekend, a significant army unit - known as CAPSAT - that assisted place Rajoelina in power in 2009 acted to challenge him by announcing itself in command of all the military, while several of its officers joined demonstrators on the streets of the main city, Antananarivo.

Subsequent to a meeting of defense officers on Monday, the recently appointed Military Commander installed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, promised the citizens that the military were cooperating to maintain order in the island nation.

By Monday night, the officer was at national TV headquarters working to resolve the situation, according to a announcement from the presidential office.

Communicating on understanding of anonymity, a high-ranking leader in Madagascar's largest opposition party told that Madagascar was now practically being governed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has furthermore said it plans to bring removal proceedings against Rajoelina for "abandonment of post".

Numerous of Rajoelina's close associates have departed to close Mauritius. They include ex- Government Leader 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 citizens there exist below the poverty line, while information shows just over one-third of people have access to electricity.

The rallies commenced over anger with frequent water and power outages, then escalated to demonstrate more extensive discontent with Rajoelina's administration over elevated unemployment, corruption, and the economic crisis.

At least 22 civilians were fatally injured and more than 100 injured in the first few days of the rallies, although the government has denied these numbers.

Witnesses report security officers opening fire on protesters with live ammunition. In an instance, a infant died from respiratory issues after being subjected to tear gas.

Madagascar has been impacted by multiple protests since it obtained independence in 1960, including mass demonstrations in 2009 that forced then-President Marc Ravalomanana to resign and saw Rajoelina placed into office.

At the age of just 34 at the time, Rajoelina became Africa's least experienced leader - going on to govern for four years, then resuming to power a second time after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was coming from wealth and, earlier than entering politics, had established himself for himself as an business owner and DJ - setting up a radio station and an advertising company along the way.

But his stylish, youthful appeal soon declined, as claims of nepotism and deep-rooted corruption became unshakeable.

More on Madagascar's emergency:

  • Behind the Gen Z protesters who seek to pressure Madagascar's president from power
  • Army officer designated as Madagascar PM to suppress Gen Z protests
Melanie George DDS
Melanie George DDS

Lena is a passionate DIY enthusiast and blogger with over a decade of experience in crafting and home improvement, sharing her expertise to inspire creativity.

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