Madagascar President Warns of Coup Attempt as Soldiers Join Protests

Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has condemned what he called an “attempted illegal seizure of power” after members of an elite military unit joined youth-led protests demanding his resignation.

The presidency announced on Sunday that efforts were underway to overthrow the government, a day after troops from the CAPSAT unit, the same force that helped Rajoelina seize power in a 2009 coup urged fellow soldiers to side with demonstrators.

The protests, which began on September 25 over water and electricity shortages, have evolved into a broader anti-government movement inspired by youth uprisings in Kenya and Nepal. Demonstrators now call for Rajoelina’s resignation, an apology for protest-related violence, and the dissolution of the Senate and electoral commission.

At least 22 people have been killed and over 100 injured since the unrest began, according to UN figures, though the government disputes the toll.

Witnesses reported gunfire near CAPSAT barracks on Sunday, injuring several people, though no sustained clashes were seen.

Videos circulating online showed soldiers escorting thousands of protesters into May 13 Square in Antananarivo, a historic site of political uprisings previously sealed off by authorities.

In response, the prime minister and army chief have appealed for calm and urged citizens to engage in dialogue amid rising fears of instability in the island nation.