URGENT UPDATE: A significant power shift is unfolding in Madagascar as a military unit siding with anti-government protesters has installed a new military chief today. President Andry Rajoelina fiercely denounced this move, calling it an “attempt to seize power illegally.”
The CAPSAT contingent, which has aligned with protesters for the second consecutive day, attended a rally in the capital, Antananarivo, to honor victims of violent demonstrations that have erupted since September 25. The unrest has claimed at least 22 lives, with the UN reporting deaths from both security forces and criminal violence.
In a bold declaration, CAPSAT announced that all orders from the military would now originate from its headquarters, following a video statement suggesting a complete refusal to follow orders from the current government. The new Chief of the Army Staff, General Demosthene Pikulas, was officially installed in a ceremony this morning, attended by the armed forces minister, Manantsoa Deramasinjaka Rakotoarivelo. “The army has a responsibility to restore calm and peace throughout Madagascar,” Pikulas asserted.
President Rajoelina responded by condemning the military’s actions, stating, “Dialogue is the only way forward.” He reiterated that the current events constitute a violation of the Constitution and democratic principles.
The protests began over chronic power and water shortages in the impoverished nation but quickly escalated into calls for Rajoelina’s resignation. The president’s government has faced increasing pressure, leading to the dismissal of his entire cabinet last month. In a move to appease protesters, the Senate announced today the removal of its president, Richard Ravalomanana, a former general in the paramilitary police.
As tensions mount, reports of heavy-handed tactics by the gendarmerie have surfaced, compelling officers to acknowledge “faults and excesses during our interventions.” They declared, “We are here to protect, not to terrorize.”
Meanwhile, speculation swirls around Rajoelina’s whereabouts, with his government insisting he remains in Madagascar and is managing national affairs. Neighboring Mauritius confirmed that ex-prime minister Christian Ntsay and businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga had flown out of Madagascar on a private flight early today.
Air France has temporarily suspended flights to the island until at least Tuesday, reflecting the escalating crisis as the African Union calls for dialogue and restraint. South Africa has urged all parties to respect democratic processes amid these tumultuous developments.
As the situation continues to evolve, citizens gathered in Antananarivo to remember those lost, chanting, “We will prevail.” The emotional weight of this crisis remains palpable as Madagascar navigates its turbulent political landscape, grappling with the implications of this military intervention on its future.
Stay tuned for more updates as this urgent situation develops.
