Madagascar Presidency Says Attempt to Seize Power Under Way
ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar (Oct. 1) - The office of President Andry Rajoelina has confirmed that an attempt is underway to seize power in the island nation, with reports emerging that a military unit has taken control of the armed forces.
According to sources within the presidency, the move is seen as a clear violation of the Constitution and democratic principles. "There is an attempt to seize power at this time in the territory of the Republic, in complete violation of the Constitution and democratic principles," Rajoelina said in a statement.
The army unit, known as CAPSAT, claimed responsibility for taking over the leadership of the military command, stating that it now controls all land, air, and naval forces. This development has sparked widespread concern among international observers, who have long been monitoring the situation in Madagascar.
Youth-led protests began on Sept. 25 against water and power cuts, but quickly escalated into a broader movement reflecting dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's government over high unemployment, corruption, and the cost-of-living crisis. The situation has drawn comparisons to the 2009 Malagasy political crisis, in which CAPSAT played a crucial role in helping Rajoelina rise to power.
"It's a very worrying development," said a senior diplomat from the European Union, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "We urge all parties to respect the Constitution and democratic principles."
The United States has also issued a statement calling for calm and restraint. "We are monitoring the situation closely and urge all parties to refrain from violence and to respect the rule of law," said a spokesperson for the U.S. Embassy in Madagascar.
Rajoelina's whereabouts remain unclear, but his office has confirmed that he is working with international partners to address the crisis. The African Union has also issued a statement calling for calm and urging all parties to engage in dialogue.
The situation on the ground remains fluid, with reports emerging of troops joining protesters in the capital on Saturday. As tensions continue to rise, international observers are bracing themselves for further developments.
Background:
Madagascar has been plagued by political instability since 2009, when a military-backed coup led by Rajoelina overthrew then-President Marc Ravalomanana. The country has struggled to recover from the crisis, with widespread poverty and unemployment remaining major challenges.
Additional Perspectives:
"This is not just about Madagascar; it's about the stability of the entire region," said a senior official from the Southern African Development Community (SADC). "We urge all parties to respect the Constitution and democratic principles."
"The international community must remain vigilant and prepared to respond to any developments that may arise from this situation," said a spokesperson for the United Nations.
Current Status:
The situation remains fluid, with reports emerging of further troop movements and protests. The presidency has confirmed that Rajoelina is working with international partners to address the crisis, but his whereabouts remain unclear.
Next Developments:
As tensions continue to rise, international observers are bracing themselves for further developments. The African Union, European Union, and United States have all issued statements calling for calm and restraint, while urging all parties to respect democratic principles.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
