Madagascar on Edge: President Alleges Coup as Soldiers Join Anti-Government Protests

ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar (AP) — Madagascar is currently facing a serious political crisis. President Andry Rajoelina announced on Sunday that an attempted coup is underway. This follows youth-led protests in which members of an elite army unit joined demonstrators demanding his resignation.

Details about who is behind the coup attempt are still unclear, but military presence is high in the streets. Colonel Michael Randrianirina, who leads the elite CAPSAT unit, dismissed claims of a coup. However, his unit asserted control over the country’s armed forces and announced a new military leader, General Demosthene Pikulas.

“We responded to the people’s call,” Randrianirina stated. While he did not confirm whether they’ve asked Rajoelina to resign, it appears CAPSAT holds significant power.

The protests began in late September, ignited by issues of electricity and water shortages. They have escalated to widespread discontent over poverty, rising living costs, and allegations of corruption in the government. The United Nations reports that these protests have resulted in at least 22 deaths and many injuries, although the government disputes these numbers.

On Saturday, the protests reached a significant moment when soldiers from CAPSAT joined demonstrators. Randrianirina claimed his troops exchanged fire with security forces, leading to casualties. He echoed the protesters’ demands that Rajoelina and key government officials must step down.

Madagascar has a long history of political turmoil. Since gaining independence from France in 1960, it has experienced numerous coups. Rajoelina rose to power after a military-backed coup in 2009, ousting then-President Marc Ravalomanana. Despite being elected president in 2018 and reelected in 2023, both votes faced criticism due to opposition parties boycotting the elections.

The U.S. Embassy in Madagascar has warned American citizens to stay indoors, citing a “highly volatile” situation. Meanwhile, the African Union called for calm among all factions.

Recent protests have gained momentum on social media, with young activists inspired by movements in countries like Nepal and Sri Lanka. This new generation is using digital platforms to organize, bringing together diverse civic groups and trade unions. Their collective voice is becoming harder for the government to ignore.

Rajoelina attempted to quell unrest by firing his entire cabinet last month, but the protests have continued. Nighttime curfews have been imposed in Antananarivo and other cities, with the U.N. criticizing security forces for their violent responses.

As Madagascar grapples with these challenges, the world watches closely to see how this situation unfolds. AP Africa news provides ongoing coverage.

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General news, Andry Rajoelina, Protests and demonstrations, Madagascar, Marc Ravalomanana, Indian Ocean, Africa, Politics, Military and defense, World news, United Nations, Michael Randrianirina