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Political unrest in Madagascar reached a new high on Monday when an attempted takeover of state media by a group of soldiers in Antananarivo was thwarted, sparking widespread condemnation from the presidency.
The incident, which unfolded amidst escalating protests, led to the postponement of President Andry Rajoelina’s crucial national address, initially scheduled for 7 p.m.
The Malagasy presidency immediately denounced the event, labeling it as a “serious attack on the constitutional order.”
Tensions in the capital have been rising, as the country grapples with a wave of popular protests calling for political change and urgent reforms.
In a swift response, General Demosthenes Pikulas, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, was dispatched to the scene to restore order.
He coordinated efforts to deploy loyalist forces and take “all necessary measures to address the situation,” according to the presidency’s statement.
The president’s speech, which was expected to address the nation on critical issues, was subsequently delayed until 9:30 p.m. to allow for resolution of the standoff.
The unrest was further fueled by a large rally held on Sunday at May 13th Square, where thousands gathered to demand President Rajoelina’s resignation.
The demonstrators, including students, artists, entrepreneurs, and members of the security forces, expressed frustration over a lack of essential services such as water, electricity, healthcare, and education. Calls for institutional reforms and the release of detained political figures echoed throughout the crowd.
Prominent military leaders, including General Pikulas, General Lylison Roland de René, and Colonel Mikaël Randrianirina of the Army and Gendarmerie Support Corps, were visible at the demonstration.
Their participation raised eyebrows, with opposition figures such as former President Marc Ravalomanana and former Senate President Rivo Rakotovao also joining the protest.
Despite rumors of a potential coup, Colonel Randrianirina dismissed any allegations of an armed insurrection.
In a statement to the media, he said, “I don’t hold power.
I don’t control the army.
It’s the Chief of the General Staff who controls the army,” clarifying that the military’s actions were merely a response to the calls of the Malagasy people. He emphasized that he was “an executive officer” acting within his professional capacity.
As Madagascar faces this period of uncertainty, all eyes remain on the political developments that will unfold in the coming days, with the presidency urging calm and a return to order.
The attempt to seize state media underscores the deepening divide and the mounting pressure on the government to address the demands of the population.
