Military personnel pledge to seize state TV in Madagascar, presidency reports, amid concerns of government overthrow

Government turmoil in Madagascar
Protesters led countrywide protests insisting on a fairer deal for the population

Military members have declared intention to take control of the government TV facilities in Madagascar as Head of state Andry Rajoelina was due to address the nation, his office says, amid unverified information that he has left the country.

A international military jet is said to have transported Rajoelina from the island island to an unknown location, following a two weeks of national demonstrations designed to removing him out of power.

His failed attempts to placate young protesters - dubbed "Gen Z Mada" - saw him sack his whole government and make additional concessions to unsuccessfully.

On Sunday, his staff said an endeavor was ongoing to push him from power. He has not been seen in visible since Wednesday.

Rajoelina's arranged speech to the nation has been put off multiple times - it was originally due at 1900 Madagascar time (1600 GMT).

Over the weekend, a influential army force - referred to as CAPSAT - that helped install Rajoelina in power in 2009 proceeded to weaken him by declaring itself in control of all the army, while several of its officers joined protesters on the avenues of the main city, Antananarivo.

After a gathering of defense leaders on Monday, the recently appointed Armed Forces Leader appointed by CAPSAT, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, guaranteed the public that the military were working together to keep stability in the island nation.

By Monday night, the general was at national TV building working to resolve the emergency, according to a announcement from the presidential office.

Talking on understanding of anonymity, a top representative in Madagascar's major rival party revealed that Madagascar was now effectively being run by CAPSAT.

The TIM party has furthermore stated it plans to bring removal actions against Rajoelina for "abandonment of post".

Multiple of Rajoelina's close associates have fled to nearby Mauritius. They consist of former Cabinet Head Richard Ravalomanana and the entrepreneur Maminiaina Ravatomanga.

In spite of its plentiful natural resources, Madagascar is counted as the least wealthy countries in the world. About 75% of people there exist below the economic hardship level, while information shows approximately one-third of individuals have availability to electricity.

The protests commenced over dissatisfaction with repeated water and power outages, then escalated to represent more extensive unhappiness with Rajoelina's regime over high unemployment, corruption, and the cost-of-living crisis.

At least 22 people were fatally injured and over 100 wounded in the first few days of the demonstrations, although the administration has disputed these figures.

Observers report police opening fire on demonstrators with live ammunition. In a particular situation, a infant passed away from smoke inhalation after being subjected to tear gas.

Madagascar has been impacted by numerous uprisings since it achieved independence in 1960, encompassing extensive protests in 2009 that forced then-President Marc Ravalomanana to step down and saw Rajoelina ushered into office.

At the age of just 34 at the moment, Rajoelina became Africa's youngest leader - continuing to rule for four years, then coming back to power a second time after the 2018 election.

Rajoelina was coming from wealth and, prior to pursuing politics, had made a name for himself as an businessman and DJ - creating a radio station and an advertising company during this period.

But his sharp-suited, baby-faced charm quickly diminished, as accusations of favoritism and established corruption became ongoing.

Additional information about Madagascar's emergency:

  • About the Gen Z protesters who want to compel Madagascar's head of state from power
  • Military officer appointed as Madagascar PM to calm Gen Z demonstrations
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