Madagascar President Announces Coup Attempt Amid Military Defections
Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has declared an attempted coup is underway, following the defection of elite military personnel to youth-led anti-government protests that have left 22 people dead.
Key Developments
- President Rajoelina confirms “attempt to seize power illegally and by force”
- Elite CAPSAT military unit members joined protests on Saturday
- UN reports 22 deaths during three weeks of demonstrations
- Protests led by “Gen Z Madagascar” group since September 25
Official Statement
The presidential office stated: “In view of the extreme gravity of this situation, the President of the Republic … strongly condemns this attempt at destabilization and calls upon all forces of the nation to unite in defense of constitutional order and national sovereignty.”
While the statement didn’t identify the coup plotters, the involvement of CAPSAT unit members marks a significant escalation in the political crisis.
Protest Background
The demonstrations began on September 25, organized by youth activists protesting service failures, alleged government corruption, and nepotism. The United Nations has documented 22 fatalities and dozens of injuries during the unrest.
Rajoelina, who first came to power following a 2009 coup, was elected president in 2018 and secured a second term in 2023. The current crisis represents the most significant challenge to his leadership in years.
