Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina will deliver a televised address Monday evening as protests and pressure from the military mount. His exact whereabouts remain unclear, with opposition figures and some military sources suggesting he may have left the country.
The unrest intensified after an elite military unit, CAPSAT, sided with protesters demanding Rajoelina’s resignation and replaced the army chief. Hundreds celebrated in Antananarivo, with students and some soldiers joining the crowds at the symbolic May 13 Square. Former President Marc Ravalomanana was also present.
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Protests erupted on September 25 over electricity and water shortages and have since evolved into broader political demands. The UN reports at least 22 deaths and over 100 injuries, though the government disputes the figures.
The youth-led Gen Z movement driving the demonstrations cites global uprisings as inspiration.
Rajoelina, who first came to power during the 2009 military-backed coup and returned through elections in 2019 and 2023, now faces a critical challenge as Madagascar grapples with widespread frustration over basic services and governance.
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