NEWS

Madagascar Unrest Deepens As Military Splits, President Rajoelina Under Pressure

Madagascar is facing its most turbulent moment in years as nationwide protests intensify and divisions within the military threaten to upend President Andry Rajoelina’s government.

The protests, which began in late September over worsening power and water shortages, have evolved into a full-scale political uprising. Demonstrators — many of them young people — are demanding transparency, an end to corruption, and a total overhaul of the country’s leadership.

Tensions heightened after members of the elite CAPSAT military unit reportedly defied orders to suppress protesters and instead joined them in the streets. The presidency has branded the move an “attempted coup,” though power remains officially in Rajoelina’s hands.

Visibly frustrated by the growing insubordination, President Rajoelina has accused elements of the armed forces of undermining national stability. In a recent statement, he lamented the “betrayal of duty” by certain officers, calling for loyalty to the constitution and the preservation of democratic order.

Sources within Antananarivo say protesters were escorted by sympathetic soldiers to the historic May 13 Square, a location deeply symbolic in Madagascar’s political history and often associated with major regime changes. The development has further emboldened the protesters, who continue to demand the president’s resignation.

International concern is mounting as the unrest shows no sign of abating. The African Union and United Nations have both urged calm, dialogue, and respect for legal frameworks, warning that instability could have wider regional consequences.

Despite earlier attempts to ease tension — including the dissolution of his cabinet — Rajoelina appears increasingly cornered. Analysts say his hold on power is weakening amid growing public anger and visible cracks within the military.

As of Sunday night, Madagascar stands on edge: a nation at a political crossroads, where the outcome of the current standoff could reshape its democratic path for years to come.