Crisis in Madagascar: President Rajoelina Accuses Army of Power Grab

Mon Oct 13 2025 17:07:03 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A tense standoff in Madagascar unfolds as President Andry Rajoelina warns of an illegal power grab by military forces, amid widespread protests against his government.

Madagascar is facing a potential coup as President Andry Rajoelina claims an army unit has attempted to seize control of the military. This development comes amid escalating protests against the president’s administration, driven by dissatisfaction over economic conditions. The situation remains fluid, with new leadership appointed in the military, and public protests continuing in the capital, Antananarivo.

The office of Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has reported an ongoing attempt to illegally seize power within the country. In a dramatic turn of events, an army unit known as CAPSAT declared that it had taken over military command, asserting control over all armed forces including land, air, and naval units. This unit previously played a significant role during the 2009 political crisis that facilitated Rajoelina's rise to power.

Protests, initially sparked by youth-led demonstrations over water and power shortages, have evolved into a broader expression of dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's administration, particularly concerning high unemployment and corruption amid a cost-of-living crisis.

While President Rajoelina's current whereabouts are unclear, he condemned the attempt to destabilize the country, stating, there is an attempt to seize power at this time in the territory of the Republic, in complete violation of the Constitution and democratic principles. He called for unity among national forces to preserve constitutional order and sovereignty.

CAPSAT's takeover coincided with a surge in public dissent, culminating in protests in Antananarivo. Support from military members further galvanized demonstrators, allowing them to breach the historically significant May 13 Square, which had previously seen minimal access in past protests.

These protests have also raised international concern, with the African Union urging resolution through dialogue. The rising unrest also resulted in Air France suspending flights to Madagascar due to insecurity.

The country has faced sporadic protests since gaining independence in 1960, with Rajoelina having assumed power after a brief stint in 2009 and returning as president following the election in 2018. Despite its natural resources, Madagascar is grappling with pervasive poverty, with about 75% of its population living below the poverty line.

As of now, businesses in Antananarivo have largely resumed operations, yet the political tension remains palpable as crowds gather to express their discontent.