Madagascar on Brink of Power Struggle as President Rajoelina Warns of Attempt to Seize Power

Madagascar is facing a crisis as President Andry Rajoelina warns of an attempt to illegally seize power, amidst weeks of anti-government protests that have put pressure on his administration to resign. The situation is unfolding against a backdrop of decades of military involvement in politics, with the military unit CAPSAT playing a pivotal role in past power transitions, including a 2009 coup that brought Rajoelina to power. Rajoelina's warning comes as protests, led by the Gen Z Madagascar movement, continue to escalate over issues such as electricity and water supply, with at least 22 people reported killed in clashes, according to the United Nations.

Key Takeaways:

• President Andry Rajoelina has announced an attempt to illegally seize power in Madagascar, amid weeks of anti-government protests.
• The situation is unfolding against a backdrop of decades of military involvement in politics, with CAPSAT playing a pivotal role in past power transitions.
• CAPSAT has declared that all armed forces are under its command, sparking concerns about the military's role in the unfolding crisis.
• Protests organized by the Gen Z Madagascar movement began in late September over issues such as electricity and water supply.
• At least 22 people have been killed in clashes, according to the United Nations, although the government denies this.
• Rajoelina came to power in a 2009 coup, and the military has traditionally played a significant role in Madagascar's politics.
• The anti-government protests have put pressure on Rajoelina's administration to resign.

Statistics:

• At least 22 people have been killed in clashes, according to the United Nations.
• Protests began in late September over issues such as electricity and water supply.
• Madagascar gained independence in 1960, marking the beginning of decades of military involvement in politics.
• The CAPSAT military unit played a pivotal role in bringing Rajoelina to power in a 2009 coup.

Sources:

• Al Jazeera
• Ukrinform
• United Nations
• Local media reports