Madagascar military Joins Protests,Claims Control of Armed Forces
ANTANANARIVO,MADAGASCAR – A contingent of the Malagasy military has aligned itself with demonstrators protesting water and electricity cuts,claiming to have taken control of the armed forces,according to an update from Libération. The move escalates a crisis that began as a Gen Z-led movement questioning the leadership of President Andry Rajoelina and has now drawn in elements of the military.
The protests, initially sparked by widespread shortages of essential utilities, have evolved into a broader challenge to President Rajoelina’s authority. Soldiers confronted gendarmes and entered antananarivo in military vehicles, joining demonstrators at Place du 13 Mai, in front of the city hall, where they were met with cheers and calls for Rajoelina’s resignation. At least 22 people have been killed and over 100 injured as the protests began, according to a United Nations report – a figure president Rajoelina disputes, claiming only 12 deaths, characterizing the victims as “looters, thugs.”
New Prime Minister Ruphin Zafisambo stated Saturday evening that the government, “wich stands firm,” is “ready to collaborate and listen to all forces: young people, unions and the army.” He warned that “Madagascar will not be able to resist other crises if this division between citizens persists.” The presidency,though,released a statement asserting that President Rajoelina “remains in the country” and “continues to manage national affairs.”
