Madagascar's President to Address Nation Amid Ongoing Protests and Military Support

Madagascar's President to Address Nation Amid Protests and Military Support ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar - In a bid to quell growing unrest, President Andry Rajoelina announced Monday that he will address the nation via television at 7 pm local time (16:00 GMT), as protesters call for new rallies in the capital city of Antananarivo. The move comes after an elite military unit offered support to student-led Gen Z protests, which have been met with aggression from authorities. The president's decision to speak directly to the nation follows pressure from within the military for him to resign. "We are at a critical juncture in our country's history," said a senior government official, who wished to remain anonymous. "The president is aware of the growing discontent and is seeking to address the nation's concerns." Background on the situation reveals that student-led demonstrations have been ongoing across recent weeks, with protesters calling for Rajoelina's resignation. The protests have been marked by clashes between demonstrators and authorities. In a surprise move over the weekend, an elite military unit publicly declared its support for the Gen Z protests, further eroding Rajoelina's grip on power. The development has sparked speculation that the president may be losing control of the country. "This is not just about Madagascar; it's about the future of our continent," said Dr. Jean-Pierre Dutilleux, a Madagascar expert at the University of Paris. "The situation highlights the growing discontent among young people in Africa and the need for leaders to listen to their concerns." As protesters prepare for new rallies, the international community is watching closely. The United Nations has called on all parties to remain calm and engage in peaceful dialogue. Rajoelina's address will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers, who are eager to see if he can stem the tide of discontent and restore stability to the country. The situation remains fluid, with new developments emerging by the hour. As the nation waits for Rajoelina's address, one thing is clear: Madagascar is at a crossroads, and its future hangs in the balance. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*