ANTANANARIVO, Oct 12 — Tension hung thick in the air across Madagascar today after President Andry Rajoelina accused unnamed actors of attempting a coup. His announcement came as military units reportedly joined widespread protests in the capital, deepening fears of instability in one of Africa’s poorest countries.
Late Saturday evening, state television aired Rajoelina’s televised address. He said soldiers had marched toward government buildings, but security forces loyal to him had blocked their path. “We will not allow those who wish to create chaos to bring this country down,” he said.
Earlier that day, scenes of unrest rippled through Antananarivo’s streets. Protesters, incensed by chronic power cuts, water shortages, and surging costs, clashed with police. Some demonstrators waved national flags; others shouted for change. Videos circulating online showed young people confronting armored vehicles and burning barricades. Local media reported at least two deaths, though authorities have yet to confirm that.
What makes today’s crisis more concerning is the reported involvement of soldiers. A spokesman within the military, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters that some units had refused orders to remain static and instead moved to strategic locations across the city. He claimed their action was “in solidarity with the people.” That claim couldn’t be verified independently.
Citizens of Antananarivo woke to a city under siege. Shops shuttered, transport ground to a halt, and many residents stayed home, fearing crossfire. Some neighborhoods were cut off entirely due to roadblocks. A shopkeeper in the city center, speaking under the cover of night, described the dread: “We hear shouting, gunshots, soldiers walking past. No one knows what tomorrow brings.”
The protests stem from longstanding grievances. Madagascar has long struggled with weak governance, unreliable infrastructure, and a ballooning cost of living. These issues worsen every dry season, and many citizens say the government has repeatedly failed to deliver basic services.
International observers expressed alarm. United Nations officials called for calm and restraint, urging all sides to avoid violence. The African Union also appealed for immediate dialogue. But many acknowledge events have moved too quickly for diplomacy to catch up.
This isn’t the first time Madagascar has seen unrest. Yet today’s development — the possible alignment of armed forces with protesters — marks a serious turning point. The balance of power in the country is suddenly fragile.
The sun sank slowly over Antananarivo as residents huddled indoors, waiting for what comes next. In alleyways and on rooftops, neighbors whispered rumors: Which side will hold? Will foreign powers intervene? Will this state of emergency become something more lasting?
For ordinary Malagasy people, the stakes are existential. Power and water outages have become daily battles; political instability threatens food, security, and already weak healthcare. Many told Reuters this isn’t about a leader — it’s about survival.
As midnight approached, gunfire echoed in distant quarters. Lights flickered in homes. The country held its breath.
Source: Reuters
