UPDATE: A dramatic power shift is unfolding in Madagascar as a military unit aligned with anti-government protesters has installed a new army chief, escalating tensions in the capital, Antananarivo. Just hours ago, President Andry Rajoelina condemned this move as an “attempt to seize power illegally,” intensifying the ongoing crisis that has gripped the country since protests erupted on September 25.
The CAPSAT military unit, known for its role in the 2009 coup that brought Rajoelina to power, joined thousands of demonstrators in a rally to honor those killed in recent unrest. This marks the second consecutive day of protests, with local sources confirming at least 22 deaths attributed to violence, including clashes with security forces and attacks from criminal gangs.
In a bold declaration, CAPSAT announced that “all orders of the Malagasy army” will now come from its headquarters. The newly appointed Chief of the Army Staff, General Demosthene Pikulas, was installed in a ceremony attended by Manantsoa Deramasinjaka Rakotoarivelo, the armed forces minister appointed by Rajoelina just last week. Pikulas stated, “The army has a responsibility to restore calm and peace throughout Madagascar,” acknowledging the unpredictable nature of current events.
Rajoelina has publicly denounced the military’s actions, stating that “an attempt to seize power illegally and by force” contradicts democratic principles. He emphasized that “dialogue is the only way forward” to resolve the nation’s escalating crisis.
Adding complexity to the situation, CAPSAT Colonel Michael Randrianirina insisted that their move to support the protesters does not constitute a coup. “We answered the people’s calls,” he affirmed, as numerous protesters cheered their arrival. Outside city hall, prayers were held for the victims, highlighting the emotional toll on families and communities affected by the violence.
The protests, initially sparked by chronic power and water shortages, have evolved into broader calls for Rajoelina’s resignation. In response to mounting pressure, the Senate announced the dismissal of its president, Richard Ravalomanana, a former general of the gendarmerie.
To defuse tensions, Rajoelina previously dismissed his entire government. However, rumors of his potential flight from Madagascar were refuted by his administration, which confirmed he remains in the country managing national affairs. The new prime minister, Ruphin Zafisambo, expressed confidence in the government’s stability, stating they are “standing strong.”
Neighboring Mauritius confirmed that two prominent figures, former prime minister Christian Ntsay and advisor Maminiaina Ravatomanga, arrived via private flight from Madagascar earlier today, raising eyebrows amid the political unrest. Meanwhile, Air France has suspended flights to Madagascar until at least Tuesday, complicating travel plans for many.
Internationally, the United Nations has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and urged all parties to engage in dialogue. The African Union and South Africa have called for restraint and respect for democratic processes, emphasizing the need for stability in the region.
Madagascar’s political landscape has a turbulent history, and despite its rich natural resources, nearly three-quarters of its population of 32 million lived below the poverty line in 2022, according to the World Bank. As the situation develops, the eyes of the world remain on Madagascar, where the stakes are high and the future uncertain.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.
