Madagascar was thrown into crisis Monday as President Andry Rajoelina reportedly fled the country while soldiers joined anti-government protesters demanding his resignation.
Rajoelina, who had twice postponed his national address, was said to have flown out on a French military aircraft after troops threatened to seize state TV. Opposition leader Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko told Reuters, “We called the staff of the presidency, and they confirmed that he left the country.”
French radio RFI claimed Rajoelina struck a deal with President Emmanuel Macron before leaving. His former prime minister, Christian Ntsay, and ally Maminiaina Ravatomanga also fled to Mauritius “urgently.”
Before disappearing, Rajoelina warned of an “attempt to seize power illegally,” as an elite unit, CAPSAT, announced it had taken command of the army, navy, and air force.
Dubbed “Gen Z Madagascar,” the revolt began over electricity and water shortages but has erupted into a nationwide rebellion against corruption, nepotism, and economic hardship.
At least 22 people have been killed, according to the UN, as soldiers were cheered by jubilant protesters in the capital, Antananarivo, a surprising sign that the government’s grip on power may have slipped for good.
