Potential Power Seizure in Madagascar: Crisis Escalates Amid Protests

Wed Dec 03 2025 10:14:25 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Madagascar's President Rajoelina claims an illegal attempt to seize power is underway as the military unit CAPSAT asserts control over armed forces. Protests against the government escalate, fueled by dissatisfaction over rising corruption and economic issues.

Madagascar is facing a significant political crisis as President Andry Rajoelina warns of an ongoing attempt to illegally seize power. The military unit CAPSAT claims it has taken command of the armed forces, while protests driven by widespread discontent escalate. Citizens demand Rajoelina's resignation amid a backdrop of youth-led demonstrations against corruption and the high cost of living.

The office of Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has declared that an attempt to seize power illegally and by force is underway in the country. Soon after, an army unit known as CAPSAT claimed control over the military command, stating it was in charge of all armed forces across land, air, and sea.

This very unit played a vital role during the 2009 Malagasy political crisis, which propelled Rajoelina to power. The unrest began as youth-led protests on September 25 against water and power cuts, but quickly escalated due to broader dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's governance, including high unemployment, rampant corruption, and a growing cost-of-living crisis.

Rajoelina has criticized this power grab, stating, There is an attempt to seize power at this time... in complete violation of the Constitution and democratic principles and condemned the destabilization efforts. He urged significant forces within the nation to unite in defense of constitutional order.

Expected to address the nation soon, Rajoelina's comments come amidst swirling uncertainty about his whereabouts. Meanwhile, CAPSAT announced the appointment of a new army chief of staff, Gen Demosthene Pikulas, a decision reportedly accepted by the armed forces minister.

The protests had calmed slightly in Antananarivo, the capital, with many shops reopening after days of turmoil. Demonstrators celebrated their descent upon May 13 Square, a significant location for democratic uprisings. Some troops even joined the protests, indicating a shift in military loyalty.

International observers are watching closely as flights to Antananarivo are suspended amid security concerns, and the African Union calls for a dialogue to resolve the crisis. This protest movement, identified as Gen Z Mada, has utilized social media to bridge support and presents the most formidable threat to Rajoelina's administration since his re-election in 2023. The demonstrators have drawn inspiration from youth movements worldwide, notably bearing symbols like the skull with a straw hat from the "One Piece" manga.

As Madagascar grapples with these challenges, the economic situation remains dire, with 75% of its population living under the poverty line, raising urgent questions about the future stability of the country.