Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has revealed that he is hiding in a “safe place” after what he described as an attempt on his life and a coup plot involving military officers and politicians.
In a live Facebook broadcast on Monday, Rajoelina, 51, claimed that “a group of military personnel and politicians planned to assassinate me,” forcing him into hiding. He did not disclose his location, though unconfirmed reports suggest he may have fled the country aboard a French military aircraft.
The embattled leader’s announcement follows weeks of nationwide protests spearheaded by young citizens, known as “Gen Z Mada,” demanding his resignation over corruption, unemployment, and the worsening cost of living. Despite dissolving his cabinet and offering concessions, Rajoelina failed to quell the demonstrations.
Tensions escalated over the weekend as CAPSAT, an elite army unit instrumental in Rajoelina’s 2009 rise to power, declared itself in control of all armed forces. The unit’s newly appointed Chief of Army Staff, General Demosthene Pikulas, later claimed the military was united in maintaining order, but reports suggest the unit now effectively runs the country.
The opposition TIM party has accused Rajoelina of “abandoning his post” and plans to file impeachment proceedings. Several of his close allies, including former Prime Minister Richard Ravalomanana and businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga, have reportedly fled to Mauritius.
The protests, initially triggered by severe water and power cuts, have turned deadly, with at least 22 people killed and over 100 injured, according to the United Nations. Witnesses report security forces using live ammunition and tear gas on demonstrators.
Rajoelina, once hailed as Africa’s youngest leader when he first took power in 2009, now faces the gravest challenge of his political career as Madagascar teeters on the brink of another military takeover.
