Madagascar’s president has fled the country, the head of the opposition and other officials said on Monday marking the second time that young protesters have toppled a government in weeks of worldwide Gen Z unrest.
Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko, leader of the opposition in parliament, told Reuters Rajoelina left Madagascar on Sunday after units of the army defected and joined the protesters.
The president’s office, which had earlier said Rajoelina would address the nation at 7:00 pm (1600 GMT) on Monday, did not reply to requests for comment.
A surreal scene unfolded in Madagascar’s capital on Sunday as soldiers were cheered by anti-government protesters, creating a volatile atmosphere after President Andry Rajoelina announced an attempted coup was in progress. The event marks a dramatic escalation in three weeks of youth-led protests that have shaken the Indian Ocean nation.
In a stunning display, military personnel stood alongside jubilant demonstrators in Antananarivo, with army leaders openly expressing support for the protests.
This fraternization occurred just hours after a statement from President Rajoelina’s office alerted the nation to an “attempt to seize power illegally and by force.”
Despite the significant military presence, the day passed without immediate signs of violence, leaving the president’s claim and the military’s true allegiance in a tense, unresolved state.
