News|ProtestsMadagascar army unit claims control as president alleges power-grabElite troops join youth-led protests over utilities that have swelled into gravest threat for President Andry Rajoelina’s government.
A military unit in Madagascar has declared its intent to assume control of the country's armed forces. This announcement comes as elite soldiers, previously supportive of President Andry Rajoelina, have joined antigovernment protesters.
A military unit in Madagascar has declared its intent to assume control of the country's armed forces. This announcement comes as elite soldiers, previously supportive of President Andry Rajoelina, have joined antigovernment protesters.
"From now on, all orders of the Malagasy army – whether land, air or naval – will originate from CAPSAT headquarters," stated officers from the administrative and technical contingent in a video message on Sun, Oct 12, 2025.
The presidency has accused unnamed forces of attempting to overthrow President Rajoelina, describing it as "an attempted illegal and forcible seizure of power" in Madagascar, without providing further details.
This situation represents a significant challenge to Rajoelina’s leadership since his contentious 2023 reelection. The soldiers who supported his rise to power in 2009 are now opposing him.
Military personnel from CAPSAT have encouraged their peers to disregard orders and support the youth-led movement. Prime Minister Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo, recently appointed following public pressure, has expressed the government’s willingness to engage in dialogue with various groups.
A military unit in Madagascar has declared its intent to assume control of the country's armed forces.
The Senate has dismissed Senate President General Richard Ravalomanana, citing the current political climate and public demand for stability and transparent governance.
Public Sentiment and Historical Context
There is public approval in the capital, as reported from Antananarivo’s Independence Square. The army has a history of political involvement, having facilitated several power changes since Madagascar’s independence in 1960.
Protests began in late September over water and electricity shortages, evolving into a broader challenge to Rajoelina's authority. Only a third of the population has electricity, with frequent blackouts, as reported by the IMF.
Security forces have clashed with protesters, resulting in casualties. The United Nations reports at least 22 fatalities and over 100 injuries, though these figures are contested by the government.
The African Union has expressed concern over the situation, urging for calm. Air France-KLM has suspended flights between Paris and Antananarivo from Oct 11 to Oct 13, citing security concerns.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
