Attempted Coup Underway in Madagascar, President Says
An attempt to seize power by force is underway in Madagascar, President Andry Rajoelina announced today, following days of escalating protests and the defection of an elite military unit.
The unrest began three weeks ago, led by a youth movement calling itself “Gen Z Madagascar,” initially sparked by concerns over electricity and water outages but quickly expanding to encompass broader grievances regarding poverty, corruption, and the cost of living. Yesterday, members of the CAPSAT military unit joined the protests in the capital, Antananarivo, and called for Rajoelina and other government officials to step down. Colonel Michael Randrianirina of the CAPSAT unit addressed protesters from an armored vehicle, stating, “Do we call this a coup? I don’t know yet.”
President Rajoelina’s office released a statement strongly condemning the attempt at destabilization and calling for national unity to defend constitutional order. The protests, which have resulted in nighttime curfews, have reportedly left at least 22 people dead and dozens injured, according to the United Nations, though the government disputes this number. Rajoelina previously attempted to quell the unrest by dismissing his entire government, but the appointment of a military general as the new prime minister failed to satisfy protesters. Madagascar has a history of political instability, with several leaders removed through coups since gaining independence from France in 1960; Rajoelina himself came to power following a military-backed coup in 2009. Learn more about Madagascar’s history.
The situation remains fluid, and officials have indicated they are working to maintain order and defend the country’s sovereignty. The international community is closely monitoring developments in Madagascar, a nation of 31 million people located off the east coast of Africa.
