Madagascar has been plunged into political chaos as President Andry Rajoelina has reportedly fled the country following a dramatic military operation aimed at his capture. The embattled leader's sudden departure marks a stunning escalation in the island nation's ongoing political crisis.
Military Operation Forces President's Hand
According to multiple sources, the presidential palace came under what witnesses described as a "targeted military operation" earlier today. Security forces loyal to Rajoelina engaged in standoffs with military units attempting to apprehend the president, creating tense scenes in the capital.
The situation reached its climax when Rajoelina made the decision to escape the country rather than face capture. While his exact whereabouts remain unconfirmed, several reports indicate he may have left via private aircraft from a military airbase.
A Nation in Political Turmoil
The dramatic events cap months of escalating tensions between Rajoelina's government and opposition forces. The president, who first came to power in a 2009 coup before winning elections in 2018 and 2023, has faced increasing international criticism and domestic opposition over his leadership style and political manoeuvres.
Key developments in the unfolding crisis include:
- Military units moving to detain the president at his official residence
- Heavy security presence around government buildings in Antananarivo
- Reports of gunfire near the presidential palace
- Communications disruptions in the capital city
- International concern growing over the stability of the Indian Ocean nation
International Reaction and Next Steps
The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with regional bodies and global powers expressing concern about the potential for further violence. Neighbouring African nations have called for calm and a peaceful resolution to the political standoff.
With Rajoelina's departure, questions now turn to who will assume control of the government and whether this marks the beginning of a transitional period or further instability for Madagascar's 28 million people.
The nation's political future hangs in the balance as military and political leaders negotiate the path forward amid this unprecedented constitutional crisis.
