Madagascar’s Elite Soldiers Join Protests Against President
An elite unit of soldiers in Madagascar, known as Capsat, has joined ongoing protests against the country’s President, Andry Rajoelina. The move has significantly escalated tensions in the capital, Antananarivo, where demonstrations initially sparked by water and electricity cuts have evolved into broader calls for political change. The Prime Minister has called for calm and dialogue as the situation unfolds.
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Capsat Soldiers March with Protesters
On Saturday, members of the Capsat regiment marched alongside thousands of protesters in Antananarivo. Driving armored vehicles and waving Madagascar flags, the soldiers departed from their base in Soanierana. The Capsat unit’s involvement is particularly significant, as they were instrumental in bringing President Rajoelina to power during a coup in 2009.
A Capsat leader, Lylison René de Rolland, addressed the assembled crowds in front of the city hall in 13 May Square. This square had previously been inaccessible to protesters. The soldiers’ actions represent a major shift in the dynamics of the protests, adding considerable weight to the demands for President Rajoelina’s resignation and a complete political overhaul.
Government Response and Military Divisions
In response to the escalating unrest, Prime Minister Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo addressed the nation on state television, stating the government’s readiness to engage in dialogue with all factions, including youth groups, unions, and the military. The Prime Minister’s statement comes after President Rajoelina dissolved the previous government last week and appointed Zafisambo along with a new defense and security minister.
The newly appointed minister of the armed forces, General Deramasinjaka Manantsoa Rakotoarivelo, urged troops to “remain calm” and called on those who disagreed to prioritize dialogue. He emphasized that the Malagasy army should act as a mediator and the nation’s last line of defense. However, a Capsat leader released a video on social media urging other military units to “refuse orders to shoot your friends.” The leader also appealed to soldiers at the airport to prevent aircraft from taking off and to await further instructions.
Protest Origins and Broader Demands
The protests began on September 25, initially triggered by frustrations over water and electricity cuts. These grievances quickly expanded into broader demands for a complete overhaul of the political system. The Gen Z protesters have expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s response, even after President Rajoelina dismissed the previous administration.
Earlier in the day, prior to the Capsat unit joining the demonstrations, police used stun grenades and tear gas in an attempt to disperse the protesters. The involvement of the Capsat regiment has significantly changed the landscape of the protests, although some remain wary due to the unit’s history and the potential for opportunistic political maneuvering.
Concerns and Uncertainties
An activist who attended the demonstrations expressed concern about the involvement of Capsat, citing their role in the 2009 coup. The activist also criticized politicians who addressed the crowds as “opportunists,” and worried about the motivations of those involved. The activist requested anonymity due to safety concerns.
A member of Gen Z Madagascar, a leaderless group of young people coordinating the protests, voiced cautious optimism but also expressed concerns about the future. They emphasized the need to prevent another corrupted individual from seizing power and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the right to choose their leaders.
Conclusion
The situation in Madagascar remains fluid and uncertain. The involvement of the Capsat regiment in the protests against President Rajoelina has created a complex and potentially volatile environment. While the Prime Minister has called for dialogue and calm, the underlying issues driving the protests, including dissatisfaction with the political system and concerns about corruption, remain unresolved. The coming days will be critical in determining the future of Madagascar’s political landscape.
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