Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina is sheltering in a “safe place” after surviving multiple assassination attempts and facing mounting calls for his resignation amidst spiraling political unrest in the country. Rajoelina, in a live address on Facebook on Monday, revealed that since September 25, there have been attempts on his life and coup efforts against him. Despite the growing political pressure, he has refused to step down, calling for the constitution to be respected.
What Happened
On Monday, Rajoelina addressed the nation for the first time since anti-government protests, backed by a mutinous army unit, erupted across the country. The protests, which began due to chronic power and water shortages, quickly turned into a broader anti-government movement. Demonstrators have called for the president’s resignation, and on the day of his address, jubilant crowds gathered in front of Antananarivo city hall, celebrating the growing momentum for change. These protests have been met with harsh responses from security forces, resulting in at least 22 confirmed deaths, according to the United Nations.
In his speech, Rajoelina stated, “Since September 25, there have been attempts on my life and coup attempts. A group of military personnel and politicians planned to assassinate me,” and further mentioned that he had been forced to seek refuge in a safe location to protect his life. However, he did not disclose his whereabouts. Despite this, Rajoelina remains determined to stay in power, saying, “I am on a mission to find solutions.”
Rising Military Support for Protests
The mutinous soldiers, particularly from the CAPSAT unit, which had played a significant role in the 2009 coup that brought Rajoelina to power, have joined the protesters, pledging not to fire on demonstrators. This shift in loyalty by key military factions has significantly intensified the pressure on Rajoelina.
Meanwhile, officers from the gendarmerie paramilitary police force, who were accused of using heavy-handed tactics during the protests, publicly admitted to their “faults and excesses” in a video statement, further fueling discontent against the government.
International Concerns and Calls for Resignation
The ongoing turmoil has drawn concern from both regional and international bodies. The African Union’s security council has called on all armed forces in Madagascar to uphold their constitutional responsibilities and avoid interfering in political affairs. French President Emmanuel Macron also expressed “great concern” over the political crisis, but both Macron and French officials have declined to confirm reports that Rajoelina had fled the country on a French military plane.
Despite rumors of his departure, Rajoelina’s government maintained on Saturday that he remained in Madagascar and was continuing to manage national affairs.
The Struggle for Power and Demands for Change
In an attempt to quell the unrest, Rajoelina sacked his entire government last month and has made several political concessions. On Sunday, the Senate announced the dismissal of its president, Richard Ravalomanana, a former general of the gendarmerie, meeting one of the protesters’ key demands. Still, the calls for Rajoelina’s resignation continue to grow louder, as protesters demand accountability for the casualties caused during the protests.
Protesters are not only calling for Rajoelina’s resignation but also for an apology for the loss of life during the unrest. “We already expect him to offer his apologies to all Malagasy citizens, as we have had many casualties, relatives, who have been injured during the protests,” said 19-year-old Steven Rasolonjanahary, reflecting the widespread anger felt by those on the streets.
What Happens Next?
As the political crisis deepens, it remains to be seen how Rajoelina will respond to the continued demands for his resignation and whether he can navigate the growing instability. His refusal to step down, combined with the shifting loyalties within the military, makes the situation uncertain, as both sides continue to dig in their heels.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
