Madagascar's Elite Military Unit Seizes Control from President Rajoelina

Madagascar's Elite Army Unit Turns on President Rajoelina ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar - In a dramatic turn of events, the influential CAPSAT military unit announced Sunday that it was taking control of the country's entire military, sparking an "attempt to seize power illegally and by force" according to President Andry Rajoelina. The statement, published on social media, came as thousands of protesters, including soldiers from the CAPSAT unit, joined anti-government demonstrations in the capital. The protests, which began on September 25, were initially triggered by anger over police brutality and power and water shortages but have since evolved into a broader demand for political change. "We are not against the government, we are against the system," said a protester who wished to remain anonymous. "We want a new government that will address our needs and provide us with basic services." The CAPSAT unit, based in the Soanierana district on the southern outskirts of Antananarivo, had previously mutinied in 2009 during the uprising that brought Rajoelina to power. Rajoelina's administration has been criticized for its handling of the protests and the country's economic woes. The president has accused opposition groups of trying to destabilize the government and undermine his authority. "This is an attempt to seize power illegally and by force," Rajoelina said in a statement. "We will not tolerate any form of violence or intimidation." The situation on the ground remains fluid, with reports of clashes between protesters and security forces. The international community has called for calm and restraint, urging all parties to engage in peaceful dialogue. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Madagascar's fragile democracy is facing its greatest challenge yet. With the country's military now seemingly at odds with the government, the future of Rajoelina's administration hangs in the balance. Background: Madagascar has been plagued by political instability and economic woes for years. The country's economy has struggled to recover from a series of natural disasters, including a devastating cyclone that hit the island nation in 2017. The protests, which began on September 25, were initially triggered by anger over police brutality and power and water shortages but have since evolved into a broader demand for political change. Additional Perspectives: The opposition has welcomed the CAPSAT unit's move, seeing it as a sign of growing discontent with Rajoelina's administration. "This is a victory for democracy," said a spokesperson for the opposition coalition. "We hope that this will lead to a new government that will address our needs and provide us with basic services." The international community has called for calm and restraint, urging all parties to engage in peaceful dialogue. The United Nations has issued a statement expressing concern over the situation and calling on all parties to respect human rights and the rule of law. Current Status: The situation on the ground remains fluid, with reports of clashes between protesters and security forces. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging all parties to engage in peaceful dialogue. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Madagascar's fragile democracy is facing its greatest challenge yet. *Reporting by Dw.*