What's happened
In Madagascar, soldiers from the elite CAPSAT unit joined anti-government protests, refusing orders to shoot and installing a new military chief. President Rajoelina condemned the move as an illegal attempt to seize power amid ongoing protests over water, electricity, and governance issues. The crisis marks a significant challenge to Rajoelina's rule.
What's behind the headline?
The military's defection signals a critical turning point in Madagascar's crisis. The CAPSAT unit, historically influential in Rajoelina's rise, openly siding with protesters undermines his authority and raises the likelihood of a power shift. The soldiers' refusal to obey orders to shoot indicates deep discontent within the armed forces, which could lead to further fragmentation. Rajoelina's accusations of a coup attempt are likely a strategic move to rally national support, but the military's stance suggests he faces a serious challenge. The protests, driven by youth and economic hardship, are now intertwined with military politics, making the situation highly volatile. The next weeks will determine whether Rajoelina can regain control or if Madagascar will see a new leadership emerge, potentially through negotiations or further unrest.
What the papers say
The coverage from SBS, Al Jazeera, and South China Morning Post presents a consistent narrative of military defection and protests. SBS highlights the soldiers' refusal to shoot and the installation of a new army chief, emphasizing the military's role in the crisis. Al Jazeera underscores the condemnation from Rajoelina and the broader political implications, framing the military's actions as a significant challenge to his authority. The South China Morning Post provides detailed context on the protests' origins, the military's historical influence, and the violence during demonstrations, illustrating the deep-rooted instability. While all sources agree on the military's pivotal role, SBS and Al Jazeera focus more on the political fallout, whereas South China Morning Post offers a comprehensive background, making their combined insights essential for understanding the unfolding crisis.
How we got here
Madagascar has a history of political instability and coups since independence in 1960. Recent protests began over basic service shortages and evolved into broader demands for political reform. The military's involvement, especially the CAPSAT unit, signals a potential shift in power dynamics amid widespread dissatisfaction with governance and corruption.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Did Madagascar Soldiers Join Anti-Government Protests?
Recent events in Madagascar have seen soldiers from the elite CAPSAT unit defecting and supporting anti-government protests. This unexpected move raises questions about the military's role in the country's ongoing crisis. Why did these soldiers choose to side with protesters, and what does this mean for Madagascar's future? Below, we explore the key issues fueling the unrest and the implications for stability in Madagascar.
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Andry Nirina Rajoelina is a Malagasy politician and businessman who has been the president of Madagascar since 2019. He was previously president of a provisional government from 2009 to 2014 following a political crisis and military-backed coup, having he
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Madagascar, officially the Republic of Madagascar, and previously known as the Malagasy Republic, is an island country in the Indian Ocean, approximately 400 kilometres off the coast of East Africa.