Madagascar is in turmoil as President Andry Rajoelina warns of an attempted coup, while parts of the military openly join mass protests led by the youth movement Gen Z Madagascar, The elite CAPSAT unit, which helped Rajoelina rise to power in 2009, urged soldiers to side with demonstrators, taking control of key security operations and appointing General Demosthene Pikulas as army chief, A paramilitary gendarmerie unit also broke ranks, condemning the use of force against civilians and siding with the protesters,
Rajoelina’s office called the situation an illegal and forcible seizure of power, while the president and Prime Minister Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo claim to remain in control, The president’s location remained uncertain, sparking speculation about his safety,
The protests began on September 25 over water and electricity shortages, but demands quickly escalated to include Rajoelina’s resignation, an apology for alleged state violence, and the dissolution of the Senate and electoral commission, Thousands have taken to the streets in Antananarivo and other cities, expressing anger over economic hardship and inadequate services,
The United Nations reports at least 22 deaths and numerous injuries, though the government disputes these figures, As the crisis unfolds, the balance of power in Madagascar remains fragile, with civilians and military forces shaping the next chapter of the nation’s political future,
