Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has revealed that he left the country due to concerns for his safety amid a military uprising. Despite rumors of resignation, he did not formally step down during a televised address from an undisclosed location on Monday night.
Rajoelina has been under pressure from anti-government demonstrations led by Gen Z activists, which escalated when an elite military unit joined the protests and demanded the president’s removal. Describing the situation as an attempted illegal power grab, Rajoelina decided to depart Madagascar.
In his speech, Rajoelina emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve the crisis and stressed the importance of upholding the constitution. While he did not disclose his exit strategy or current whereabouts, there are reports suggesting he was evacuated on a French military aircraft.
The French Foreign Ministry declined to comment on these reports. Rajoelina’s French citizenship has been a contentious issue among some Madagascans for years due to the country’s colonial history.
The unrest in Madagascar began in late September over persistent water and electricity shortages, evolving into broader discontent with Rajoelina’s administration. This marks the most significant turmoil in the country since Rajoelina himself took power in 2009 following a military-backed coup.
The same CAPSAT military unit that rebelled against Rajoelina was instrumental in his rise to power in 2009. Although Rajoelina has not identified the individuals behind the coup attempt, the CAPSAT unit claims to have assumed control of the military and appointed a new military leader, which was acknowledged by the defense minister.
CAPSAT, backed by other military factions including the gendarmerie, appears to hold authority in Madagascar. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, a commander of CAPSAT, stated that the army is aligned with the people’s demands and denied staging a coup. He called for the Madagascan populace to determine the country’s future and consider holding new elections if Rajoelina steps down.
The situation in Madagascar remains volatile, with the U.S. Embassy advising American citizens to stay indoors. The African Union has urged all parties to exercise restraint.
The demonstrations, primarily led by a group known as “Gen Z Madagascar,” have highlighted various issues such as poverty, education accessibility, alleged government corruption, and embezzlement of public funds. These protests have drawn support from civic organizations and trade unions, leading to curfews in major cities.
Madagascar, since gaining independence in 1960, has witnessed multiple political upheavals, with leaders ousted in coups. Rajoelina, aged 51, rose to power after the 2009 coup and has faced political challenges ever since. Notably, his former prime minister and close adviser have also fled the country, seeking refuge in Mauritius.
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