Madagascar President Reports Ongoing Attempted Coup
An ongoing attempted coup is unfolding in Madagascar, as reported by the country’s president on Sunday. The announcement follows an unusual alignment of an elite army unit with youth-led protests against the government. These demonstrations, underway for three weeks, mark the most significant unrest in years. With the involvement of youth movement “Gen Z Madagascar,” the unrest has reportedly resulted in at least 22 deaths and multiple injuries, according to the United Nations. The government, however, challenges these figures.
Political Turmoil and Military Involvement
Madagascar’s President, Andry Rajoelina, has issued a statement from his office addressing the illegal attempt to seize power. He emphasized the serious nature of the situation and urged national unity in maintaining constitutional integrity and sovereignty. The statement refrained from explicitly naming those orchestrating the coup but highlighted Saturday’s participation of the elite CAPSAT military unit in the protests.
Background and Reaction
- President Rajoelina appointed military general Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo as Prime Minister on October 6, 2025.
- This appointment occurred amidst government dissolution over grievances relating to power and water shortages.
- Service failures, alongside allegations of corruption and nepotism, ignited the protests beginning September 25.
President Rajoelina, who initially rose to the spotlight following a 2009 coup, was first elected as president in 2018 and resecured the position in 2023. His leadership is now under severe scrutiny due to the ongoing crisis.
International and National Implications
The evolving political crisis in Madagascar drew significant attention both locally and internationally. Observers are closely monitoring how these events will impact the nation’s stability. Amidst these tensions, the call for maintaining a free press remains crucial for upholding democracy and fostering informed public engagement.
