Antananarivo: Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina said on Sunday that an ongoing attempt to seize power illegally and by force is underway in the country, a day after soldiers joined a protest movement in the capital, Antananarivo.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Rajoelina stated that the situation contradicts the constitution and democratic principles, urging the international community to closely monitor the situation. The announcement followed a declaration of mutiny by the military unit, CAPSAT, which refused orders to fire on protesters.
The incident is reminiscent of the 2009 mutiny by the same unit, which facilitated Rajoelina’s ascent to power. Antananarivo saw massive protests on Saturday, organized by the Generation Z movement. Initially focused on service failures, the protests quickly evolved into demands for the regime’s downfall and saw participation from members of the armed forces.
Protests have been ongoing since late September, resulting in the deaths of 22 people and injuries to more than 100. Meanwhile, new Prime Minister Rufin Zafisamba has stated that the government is open to dialogue with all political and social forces.