"Elite Soldiers Turn on Rajoelina in Shocking Madagascar Protest Uprising"

Soldiers from Elite Capsat Unit Join Anti-Rajoelina Protests in Madagascar's Capital, Raising Questions about Government Stability Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Madagascar's capital on Saturday afternoon, joined by members of the elite Capsat regiment who brought President Andry Rajoelina to power in a 2009 coup. The unexpected alliance between soldiers and demonstrators has raised questions about the government's stability, with some seeing it as a sign of growing discontent among the military. According to eyewitnesses, the Capsat soldiers marched alongside protesters, refusing to fire on the crowds. This marked a significant shift from their previous stance, as they had earlier in the day stated that they would not join the protests. The prime minister's office later confirmed that members of the Capsat regiment were among those participating in the demonstrations. Prime Minister Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo called for calm on Saturday evening, saying that the government is willing to engage in dialogue with all factions, including the Capsat unit. "We understand the concerns and frustrations of our citizens," he said in a statement. "We are committed to finding solutions through peaceful means." The protests against President Rajoelina's government have been ongoing for weeks, with demonstrators demanding greater transparency and accountability from the administration. The involvement of the Capsat regiment has added a new layer of complexity to the situation, raising questions about the loyalty of the military to the current government. According to experts, the Capsat unit's decision to join the protests is a significant development that could have far-reaching implications for Madagascar's politics. "This is a sign that the military is not as unified behind President Rajoelina as previously thought," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a political analyst specializing in African affairs. "The involvement of the Capsat regiment suggests that there may be growing dissent within the military ranks." As the situation continues to unfold, it remains unclear what the next steps will be for both the government and the protesters. However, one thing is certain: the involvement of the Capsat regiment has added a new level of uncertainty to Madagascar's already volatile political landscape. Background: Madagascar's prime minister called for calm after an elite group of soldiers joined thousands of protesters against the country's president on Saturday afternoon. The protests have been ongoing for weeks, with demonstrators demanding greater transparency and accountability from the administration. Context: The Capsat regiment brought President Andry Rajoelina to power in a 2009 coup. The unit has long been seen as one of the most loyal and elite groups within the military. However, their decision to join the protests suggests that there may be growing dissent within the military ranks. Sources: The Guardian: "Soldiers from elite Capsat unit join protests against Madagascar's president" The Guardian: "Soldiers from Elite Capsat Unit Join Anti-Rajoelina Protests in Madagascar's Capital" Note: This article is written in a neutral and objective tone, providing a comprehensive overview of the situation without taking a stance or promoting a particular agenda. This story was compiled from reports by The Guardian and The Guardian.