Madagascar’s presidency announced on Sunday, October 12, 2025, that the nation was facing an “attempted illegal and forcible seizure of power.” This declaration came just one day after certain military factions aligned themselves with a burgeoning protest movement that originated last month.
Specifically, troops from the elite CAPSAT unit—a group that played a crucial role in President Andry Rajoelina’s ascent to power in a 2009 coup—have publicly urged their fellow soldiers to defy official orders and lend their support to the youth-led demonstrations. These protests, which commenced on September 25, represent the most significant challenge to Rajoelina’s leadership since his reelection in 2023.
A Reuters correspondent reported seeing three individuals injured after shots were fired along a road leading to the CAPSAT barracks on Sunday. However, other witnesses indicated no continuous armed clashes were observed at that time.
Initially sparked by widespread discontent over severe water and electricity shortages, the protests, which draw inspiration from Gen Z movements in Kenya and Nepal, have rapidly escalated. Demonstrators are now vehemently demanding Rajoelina’s resignation, an apology for alleged violence against protesters, and the dissolution of both the Senate and the country’s electoral commission.
According to figures released by the United Nations, the unrest since September has tragically resulted in at least 22 deaths and 100 injuries. The Malagasy government, however, has contested these numbers, with President Rajoelina stating earlier this month that 12 people had been killed during the demonstrations.
In an official statement posted on the presidency’s social media channels, Mr. Rajoelina’s office unequivocally condemned these destabilization efforts. He implored all national forces to “stand together in defense of constitutional order and national sovereignty,” while also advocating for dialogue as a path to resolving the ongoing crisis.
Videos circulating on social media on Saturday, October 11, clearly depicted CAPSAT soldiers encouraging other troops to “support the people.” Subsequent footage broadcast by local media showed dozens of these soldiers departing their barracks later that Saturday to escort thousands of protesters into Antananarivo’s May 13 Square. This historical site, a frequent backdrop for political uprisings, had previously been heavily guarded and restricted during the unrest.
In the aftermath of these events, both the prime minister and the army’s chief of staff have called upon citizens to engage in constructive dialogue and maintain calm amidst the volatile situation.