President in Hiding as Coup Attempt Rocks Madagascar

Andry Rajoelina says military and political forces tried to assassinate him amid growing unrest and protests across the country.

Andry Rajoelina, the embattled president of Madagascar, has revealed that he is taking refuge in a “safe place” after an alleged attempt on his life. The revelation comes amid a surge of nationwide protests demanding his resignation.

In a delayed live address on social media, the 51-year-old leader claimed that “a group of military personnel and politicians planned to assassinate me.” He did not disclose his current location, but earlier reports hinted at a possible evacuation aboard a French military aircraft.

Rising Wave of Protests

The country has been gripped by unrest for the past two weeks, with thousands of mostly young protesters  dubbed “Gen Z Mada”  calling for the president’s immediate exit. Rajoelina’s efforts to appease the demonstrators by dissolving his government and making concessions failed to calm the situation.

He has not been seen in public since midweek, fueling speculation and uncertainty. Over the weekend, the presidency confirmed that a coup attempt was underway.

Military Pressure Intensifies

On Monday, tensions escalated as soldiers threatened to seize the state TV headquarters in Antananarivo. After several postponements, Rajoelina finally addressed the nation, stating that multiple assassination and coup attempts had forced him to hide.

“There is only one way to resolve these issues: respect for the constitution,” he emphasized, signaling his refusal to step down voluntarily.

Power Struggle Within the Armed Forces

The powerful army unit CAPSAT  instrumental in bringing Rajoelina to power during the 2009 uprising  turned against him over the weekend. The unit declared itself in control of the armed forces, and some officers joined the demonstrators in the streets.

Following an emergency meeting, newly installed Chief of Army Staff Gen. Demosthene Pikulas assured the public that security forces were working together to maintain order. By evening, he was at the state TV headquarters in a bid to ease the crisis.

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Opposition Eyes Impeachment

A senior figure from the opposition TIM party told the BBC that the military now effectively controls the country. The party also announced plans to pursue impeachment proceedings against Rajoelina for “abandonment of post.”

Several key allies of the president, including former Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga, have reportedly fled to Mauritius as political instability grows.

Economic Strain Fuels Public Anger

Despite its rich natural resources, Madagascar remains one of the world’s poorest countries. According to World Bank, roughly 75% of the population lives below the poverty line, while International Monetary Fund data shows only a third have access to electricity.

Initial protests were sparked by widespread frustration over power and water outages. Over time, they evolved into a movement expressing deep-seated anger at unemployment, corruption, and the high cost of living.

Deadly Crackdown on Protesters

The unrest has already claimed lives. The United Nations reported at least 22 deaths and over 100 injuries during the early days of demonstrations, figures the government has disputed. Eyewitnesses described scenes of violence, including security forces firing live ammunition.

Tragically, a newborn baby died from smoke inhalation caused by tear gas, amplifying public outrage and fueling calls for change.

A History of Political Instability

Madagascar’s current turmoil is part of a long history of uprisings since its independence in 1960. One of the most significant occurred in 2009, when mass protests toppled then-President Marc Ravalomanana and ushered Rajoelina  then just 34 years old  into power as Africa’s youngest leader.

He initially gained popularity with his youthful image and business background as an entrepreneur and DJ. But over time, accusations of corruption and cronyism eroded public trust.

Uncertain Road Ahead

As the standoff between protesters, the military, and the presidency intensifies, Madagascar faces a critical crossroads. Whether the president regains control or the military consolidates power remains uncertain.

For now, the nation watches closely as political tensions deepen, economic challenges mount, and calls for democratic accountability grow louder.

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