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An attempted coup is reportedly unfolding in Madagascar, according to the country’s president. This follows a day after elite army unit members were observed joining protests against the government, organized by youth.
Madagascar has been shaken by three weeks of the most significant unrest in years in the nation.
The protests are spearheaded by a group named “Gen Z Madagascar,” with the United Nations reporting 22 fatalities and many injuries, a claim contested by the government.
President Andry Rajoelina’s office released a statement stating that an “illegal and forceful” power seizure has begun, informing both the nation and international community.
“Given the severe nature of this situation, the president firmly condemns this destabilizing attempt and urges all national forces to unify in upholding constitutional order and national sovereignty,” Rajoelina’s office announced on Sunday.
The statement did not specify who was behind the coup attempt, but noted that members of the elite CAPSAT military unit participated in youth-led protests against Rajoelina on Saturday.
The protests against service failures and alleged government corruption and nepotism first erupted on since Sept. 25.
Rajoelina rose to prominence as Madagascar’s interim leader after a 2009 coup, was first elected as president in 2018, and secured reelection in 2023.
