Military personnel vow to take over national TV in Madagascar, leader's administration says, amid alerts of government overthrow

National crisis in Madagascar
Young people initiated countrywide protests demanding a fairer deal for citizens

Armed forces have threatened to take control of the state TV facilities in Madagascar as Leader Andry Rajoelina was expected to make statement to the nation, his staff reports, amid unofficial accounts that he has departed from the country.

A international military jet is said to have evacuated Rajoelina from the Indian Ocean island to an undisclosed location, following a two weeks of nationwide rallies intended to removing him from power.

His failed attempts to calm young activists - dubbed "Gen Z Mada" - saw him sack his whole government and make further agreements to no avail.

On Sunday, his office said an endeavor was under way to pressure him from power. He has not been seen in open since Wednesday.

Rajoelina's scheduled speech to the nation has been put off several times - it was originally scheduled at 1900 Madagascar time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a powerful army division - known as CAPSAT - that helped establish Rajoelina in power in 2009 proceeded to undermine him by proclaiming itself in command of all the army, while several of its officers joined protesters on the roads of the main city, Antananarivo.

Subsequent to a meeting of military officers on Monday, the new Armed Forces Leader designated by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, promised the people that the military were cooperating to keep stability in the island nation.

By Monday evening, the general was at national TV facilities attempting to settle the crisis, according to a communication from the presidency.

Speaking on condition of privacy, a high-ranking leader in Madagascar's biggest opposition party informed that Madagascar was now practically being governed by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has also announced it plans to bring dismissal proceedings against Rajoelina for "abandonment of office".

Numerous of Rajoelina's inner circle have fled to nearby Mauritius. They consist of former Government Leader Richard Ravalomanana and the businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

In spite of its plentiful mineral wealth, Madagascar is counted as the least wealthy countries in the world. About 75% of citizens there exist below the economic hardship level, while information shows about one-third of residents have opportunity to electricity.

The protests began over anger with repeated water and power cuts, then escalated to represent more extensive dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's administration over significant unemployment, corruption, and the economic crisis.

At least 22 people were killed and in excess of 100 injured in the opening days of the protests, although the administration has denied these numbers.

Observers detail police opening fire on civilians with real bullets. In a particular situation, a infant succumbed from smoke inhalation after being affected by tear gas.

Madagascar has been rocked by numerous protests since it obtained independence in 1960, including mass demonstrations in 2009 that pressured then-President Marc Ravalomanana to leave office and saw Rajoelina placed into office.

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

Rajoelina was raised in wealth and, earlier than entering politics, had established himself for himself as an entrepreneur and DJ - creating a radio station and an advertising company in the process.

But his sharp-suited, youthful attraction quickly diminished, as allegations of cronyism and entrenched corruption became unshakeable.

Further details regarding Madagascar's crisis:

  • Regarding the Gen Z demonstrators who seek to pressure Madagascar's head of state from power
  • Defense general appointed as Madagascar PM to quell Gen Z rallies
Tiffany Wilkins
Tiffany Wilkins

Tech enthusiast and lifestyle blogger with a passion for innovation and storytelling.