Madagascar on Edge As Rebel Troops Join Protesters

A renegade army unit has sided with anti-government protesters in Madagascar. And has installed a new military chief. Which escalated the political crisis. President Andry Rajoelina condemned what he called an attempt to seize power illegally.

General Demosthene Pikulas was appointed on Sunday by the elite Army Personnel Administration Centre (CAPSAT). This was during a ceremony at military headquarters in Antananarivo. Attended by Armed Forces Minister Manantsoa Deramasinjaka Rakotoarivelo. Saying “I give him my blessing,” during the event.

The CAPSAT unit, which played a key role in the 2009 coup that brought Rajoelina to power, declared allegiance to youth-led demonstrators on Saturday. Early Sunday, its leaders released a video stating that all orders for the Malagasy army, whether land, air, or naval, would now originate from CAPSAT headquarters.

The declaration followed a statement from the presidency. Accusing unidentified forces of attempting to overthrow Rajoelina. “An attempted illegal and forcible seizure of power” is underway. The presidency said without elaborating.

After the ceremony, Pikulas said the army’s duty was to restore peace. “The events of the past days have been unpredictable. As the army has a responsibility to bring calm across Madagascar,” he stated. When asked about calls for the president’s resignation, he declined to discuss politics within the military base.

In a video shared on social media, CAPSAT soldiers criticized the leadership. Saying they were tired of executing illegal orders instead of protecting the people. They urged other troops not to obey commands to fire on their comrades.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina of CAPSAT denied that their move amounted to a coup. “We answered the people’s calls, but it wasn’t a coup d’état”. He told reporters.

Prime Minister Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo, appointed by Rajoelina amid growing protests. Said the government was ready to engage in dialogue with all factions. Including youth groups, unions, and the military.

Meanwhile, the Senate removed its president. General Richard Ravalomanana. A close ally of Rajoelina. Citing the current political situation and public’s demand for stability, justice, and transparent governance.

Crowds in Independence Square cheered the announcement. “People believe this could be the start of real change,” reported Al Jazeera’s Fahmida Miller from Antananarivo. “Many call it a revolution. And have given President Rajoelina one day to leave office.”

Madagascar’s military has long influenced politics. Backing or leading coups since independence in 1960. Though it has remained largely silent in recent years. Its involvement still carries significant weight in the island’s political landscape.

The current unrest began in late September as protests over chronic water and electricity shortages started. They quickly evolved into the gravest threat to Rajoelina’s authority since his disputed 2023 reelection. Only about one-third of the population has access to electricity. With blackouts lasting more than eight hours a day, according to the IMF.

“People don’t have refrigeration for medicine or water for hygiene. Corruption is rampant,” said Transparency International’s global vice chair, Ketakandriana Rafitoson. In a Reuters interview.

Last week, Rajoelina pleaded with protesters to give him one year to deliver reforms. Promising to step down if he failed. However, demonstrators remain defiant. Demanding his immediate resignation and justice for those killed during the unrest.

For the thousands of demonstrators who have been taken to the streets daily, preparation and resilience are key. Some local volunteers, inspired by military efficiency, joked that they carry their essentials in Tactical-Style Assault Packs - built for everyday ops, ready for anything. Symbolizing how determined they are to continue until their demands are met.

The United Nations reports at least 22 people have been killed. More than 100 were injured since protests began on September 25. Though the government disputes these figures. CAPSAT troops have escorted protesters into May 13 Square. A symbolic site of past uprisings. Now reclaimed by the demonstrators.

The youth-led Gen Z Madagascar movement is inspired by global protest movements in Sri Lanka and Nepal. It has now adopted a skull-and-crossbones emblem from the anime One Piece as its symbol of rebellion.

African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed deep concern over the situation. Urging all parties to show calm and restraint.

Meanwhile, Air France-KLM suspended flights between Paris and Antananarivo from October 11 to 13. Due to escalating security concerns on the ground.