ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar — President Andry Rajoelina says he has taken refuge in a “safe space” abroad after an attempt on his life, deepening a political crisis in Madagascar that has seen widespread protests, military dissent, and mounting calls for his resignation.
In a rare public address via Facebook from an undisclosed location, Rajoelina, 51, claimed that elements within the military and certain politicians plotted to assassinate him.
He said the pressure reached a point where he had to flee his residence and take shelter to protect his life.
What began on 25 September as demonstrations over water and electricity shortages has morphed into a broader uprising led largely by young people — dubbed “Gen Z Mada” — demanding better governance, transparency, and relief from corruption.
Over the weekend, the crisis took a sharp turn: CAPSAT, an elite military unit long loyal to Rajoelina, reportedly defected and declared itself in command of the armed forces. Some of its officers joined protesters and refused to fire on them.
Media reports say Rajoelina may have left Madagascar aboard a French military aircraft.
Although he has not resigned, Rajoelina called for adherence to Madagascar’s constitution as the path forward. “Only the constitution can resolve the crisis,” he said, urging calm and respect for legal norms.
He also noted that as yet, the full identity of those responsible for the alleged conspiracies remains under investigation.
At least 22 people have died in clashes between protesters and security forces during the unrest, according to United Nations sources.
The unrest has triggered curfews in major cities, institutional instability, and an acute breakdown in trust between the government, citizenry, and segments of the military.
What Comes Next
- Location and Legitimacy: Rajoelina has not disclosed his current whereabouts. The ambiguity around his safety and legitimacy could prolong the crisis.
- Military Influence: CAPSAT’s defection shifts the balance of power significantly. How other branches of the military respond will matter.
- International Role: There are reports of French involvement — Rajoelina was allegedly transported on a French military plane. French officials have so far remained noncommittal.
- Constitutional Resolution: Rajoelina insists that legal frameworks be respected. Observers say any resolution will likely require transitional agreements, new elections, or other constitutional mechanisms.
Madagascar is at a critical juncture. President Rajoelina’s retreat into an unnamed “safe space” underscores both the severity of the immediate threat to his power and the broader fracture in governance. Whether the crisis resolves via constitutional means or spirals into further instability remains to be seen.
