Madagascar was thrust into a state of high alert on Sunday after President Andry Rajoelina declared an attempted coup was under way—just hours before a surreal and unnerving scene unfolded in the heart of the capital. Military personnel were seen mingling with cheering anti-government protesters, raising fists and slogans in apparent defiance of the very government they are meant to defend.
The extraordinary scenes from Antananarivo have plunged the Indian Ocean nation into its deepest political crisis in over a decade, raising the spectre of military mutiny and the collapse of civilian authority.
In an official statement issued early Sunday, President Rajoelina’s office warned of “an attempt to seize power illegally and by force,” though the source of the threat was left deliberately vague. By afternoon, the situation became clearer—and more troubling—as elements of the army appeared to side openly with demonstrators, refusing to disperse crowds and even expressing support for their demands.
Elite army officers from the CAPSAT unit, once instrumental in Rajoelina’s 2009 military-backed rise to power, were spotted addressing crowds and calling for “national unity,” while distancing themselves from the current government’s leadership. The same unit’s current commander has reportedly claimed control of the armed forces, though this remains unconfirmed by the Defence Ministry.
The dramatic escalation follows nearly three weeks of unrest sparked by the youth-led “Gen Z Madagascar” movement, which began on 25 September as a protest against electricity and water shortages. But the demonstrations have since evolved into a widespread rebellion against government corruption, nepotism, and soaring living costs.
What sets this wave of unrest apart is its rapid growth and digital coordination. Mobilised through social media, the movement has drawn tens of thousands of young people into the streets, while garnering support from civil society groups, labour unions, and religious leaders.
According to United Nations figures, at least 22 people have died during the protests—a toll the government disputes. Rights groups warn the number could rise sharply if the military fractures and violence erupts between rival factions.
In a bid to restore order, President Rajoelina last week dismissed his entire cabinet and appointed a military general as prime minister. But the move, rather than consolidating his authority, appears to have deepened distrust both within the armed forces and the civilian population.
Speaking in a televised address late Sunday, the president called for calm and insisted he remained in control. “Democracy must not be hijacked by those who seek chaos,” he said. Yet on the streets of the capital, confidence in his leadership has all but evaporated.
With parts of the army seemingly breaking ranks and a defiant youth movement refusing to retreat, Madagascar now teeters on the edge of a political rupture. Whether Rajoelina can survive this latest challenge—or whether history is repeating itself—remains perilously unclear.
This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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