Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina is hiding in a 'safe place' as he warns of a coup attempt. Image: Vijesti.
(The Post News) – Madagascar’s political crisis deepened this week as President Andry Rajoelina confirmed he had fled the country following weeks of mass protests demanding his resignation.
In a televised address from an undisclosed location, Rajoelina said he was in a “safe place” after what he described as an assassination attempt and a coordinated effort by rogue military elements to overthrow his government.
The protests, which began over police brutality and worsening living conditions, have escalated into a broader movement calling for political change. Demonstrators have taken to the streets of Antananarivo for over three weeks, clashing with security forces and demanding the president step down.
The unrest reached a tipping point when an elite military unit, Capsat, publicly sided with the protesters and called for Rajoelina’s resignation.
Tension Within Led By Protests
Tensions surged further when soldiers reportedly threatened to storm the headquarters of the national broadcaster just hours before Rajoelina was scheduled to deliver a national address.
The move was widely interpreted as an attempt to block the president from communicating with the public and to assert control over state messaging.
The military’s growing defiance has raised fears of a full-blown coup.
According to reports, the president’s speech had already been delayed twice due to security concerns. The attempted seizure of the broadcaster marked a symbolic and strategic escalation in the standoff between the government and dissenting factions within the armed forces.
SADC Meets to Discuss
In response to the escalating crisis, the South African presidency confirmed that President Cyril Ramaphosa is engaging with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to address the situation.
South Africa, a key regional player, has expressed concern over the potential for instability to spread beyond Madagascar’s borders.
The SADC meeting is expected to explore diplomatic interventions, including mediation efforts and support for democratic processes in the island nation.
About the Author
