ANTANANARIVO — Madagascar entered a volatile new phase of its political crisis on Saturday after CAPSAT — the strategic military barracks in charge of weapons and ammunition — publicly urged security forces to disobey their commanders and “join the population,” triggering open splits within the security apparatus.
Since the call, the national gendarmerie has sided with the military faction, and the wider army is now reportedly following CAPSAT’s directives. In a further shake-up, the army’s Chief of Staff has been replaced, underscoring the extent of the rupture inside the chain of command.
President Andry Rajoelina has been conspicuously absent from public view for a week. He broke his silence only to issue a short statement insisting he remains on Madagascan soil and condemning what he called an attempted destabilization and illegal seizure of power. The presidency said he will address the nation at 7 p.m. local time on Sunday, a speech that could prove decisive in clarifying who holds authority.
With rival commands circulating and loyalties in flux, the situation on the ground remains tense and fluid. There were no immediate details on whether civilian institutions are operating normally or if curfews or movement restrictions are in place. Diplomatic missions and regional observers are closely watching events, while businesses and residents braced for potential disruptions.
Until the president’s address — and any subsequent moves by security leaders — the central question hangs over Antananarivo: who is truly in control of the state’s coercive power?
