Madagascar"s President Andry Rajoelina has condemned what he describes as an "attempted illegal and forcible seizure of power" following the involvement of soldiers from the elite CAPSAT unit in protests demanding his resignation. These soldiers, who previously supported Rajoelina"s 2009 coup, joined youth-led demonstrations that have turned deadly.
In a significant development, Colonel Mickaël Randrianirina of CAPSAT called on troops to disobey orders and assist protesters in reaching the historic May 13 Square, asserting that the armed forces are now under the control of the demonstrators.
The protests, inspired by the frustrations of younger generations, began on September 25 due to ongoing power and water shortages. At least 22 people have died in the ensuing clashes, which have expanded into broader demands for political reform and the ousting of President Rajoelina.
For more on related coverage, see recent developments in political leadership.
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