Full Breakdown
Madagascar's Military Joins Protests Against President Rajoelina
10/12/2025, 2:07:29 AM
Soldiers Align with Protesters Amid Escalating Unrest
On October 11, 2025, a significant shift occurred in Madagascar as soldiers from the elite CAPSAT unit joined thousands of protesters in Antananarivo, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing demonstrations against President Andry Rajoelina. The protests, which began on September 25 over water and electricity shortages, have escalated into broader calls for governmental reform and the president's resignation. This alignment of military personnel with demonstrators raises concerns about a potential coup attempt, as the military has historically played a crucial role in Madagascar's political landscape.
Background of the Protests
The protests were initially sparked by frustrations over inadequate public services, particularly power and water supply issues. However, they quickly evolved into a broader anti-government movement, fueled by grievances over corruption, poor governance, and economic hardship in one of the world's poorest nations. The youth-led movement, inspired by similar protests in Kenya and Nepal, has gained momentum, with demonstrators demanding not only Rajoelina's resignation but also the dissolution of the Senate and electoral commission.
Military's Role and Official Responses
The CAPSAT unit, which played a key role in Rajoelina's rise to power during a coup in 2009, publicly called on fellow soldiers to disobey orders to shoot at protesters. In a video shared on social media, soldiers urged their comrades to "refuse to be paid to shoot our friends, our brothers, our sisters." This call for solidarity was met with cheers from the crowd as soldiers escorted protesters into the historically significant May 13 Square, previously off-limits during the unrest.
In response to the escalating situation, Prime Minister Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo called for calm and dialogue, stating that the government was "fully ready to listen and engage" with all factions, including the military. However, the government's efforts to quell the unrest have been met with skepticism, as Rajoelina's recent cabinet reshuffle failed to pacify demonstrators.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the government, including members of the youth-led Gen Z movement, have expressed concerns about the military's involvement. Activists worry that the CAPSAT unit's historical ties to Rajoelina's initial rise to power could lead to further instability. One protester noted, "We are very happy, but we don’t want another corrupted person to take the power here." This sentiment reflects a broader desire for genuine democratic change rather than a mere replacement of leadership.
Conflicting Reports on Casualties
The United Nations reported that at least 22 people have died and over 100 have been injured since the protests began, a figure disputed by Rajoelina, who claims only 12 deaths occurred, labeling the deceased as "looters and vandals." This discrepancy highlights the ongoing tension between the government and the international community regarding the handling of the protests.
What's Next?
As the situation in Madagascar continues to unfold, the involvement of the military alongside protesters could signal a turning point in the nation's political landscape. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the government can restore order through dialogue or if the protests will escalate further, potentially leading to a significant shift in power dynamics.
