Madagascar's President Rajoelina Takes Refuge, Favors Constitutional Solution Amid Ongoing Protests

Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has taken refuge in a "safe space" after an alleged attempt on his life, while the country grapples with weeks of anti-government protests. The 51-year-old leader has called for a constitutional solution to the crisis, which has been fueled by severe water and electricity shortages, alleged corruption, and calls for his resignation. Despite previous reports of Rajoelina's evacuation to France, the French President Emmanuel Macron has declined to confirm this, expressing only concern for the situation.

Key Takeaways:

• President Rajoelina has taken refuge in a "safe space" after an alleged attempt on his life, amid ongoing protests and constitutional crisis.
• The protests, which began on September 25, have been led by youth and have resulted in government reshuffles, including the dissolution of the Cabinet and the appointment of a new prime minister and heads of security.
• The Army Personnel Administration Center (CAPSAT), a military unit instrumental in Rajoelina's rise to power in 2009, has declared its support for the protests.
• French President Emmanuel Macron has declined to confirm reports of Rajoelina's evacuation to France, stating only that he is concerned about the situation.
• President Rajoelina has called for a constitutional solution to the crisis, stating that "only the constitution can resolve the crisis."

Statistics:

• September 25: Date of the beginning of the protests against President Rajoelina.
• 2009: The year in which President Rajoelina came to power through a coup.
• 51: The age of President Rajoelina.
• 2 weeks: The duration of the protests against President Rajoelina.
• 1 million: The number of citizens affected by the severe water and electricity shortage.

Sources:

• "Madagascar’s president says he ‘sheltering in a safe space’ after ‘attempt on his life’" by Andolu Ajansi (SyndiGate Media Inc.).
• "Madagascar President Rajoelina escapes possible assassination, seeks safety" by The Africa Monitor.
• "Madagascar: President Rajoelina Denounces CAPSAT's Support for Protests" by AllAfrica.