Madagascar Political Crisis Deepens as Soldiers Join Anti-Government Protests

In a dramatic turn of events, a faction of the Madagascar military has publicly expressed solidarity with anti-government protesters in the capital, Antananarivo, intensifying the country’s ongoing political crisis.

The protests, which have drawn thousands of demonstrators over several weeks, escalated when security forces attempted to disperse crowds in the city center using tear gas and stun grenades. However, a group of soldiers broke ranks and stood alongside the protesters, refusing to follow orders to use force.

The soldiers declared they would not obey any command to fire on civilians, prompting cheers and applause from demonstrators, many of whom waved national flags in support. Following a meeting at a military base, the soldiers issued a joint statement affirming their commitment to protect the people, not suppress them.

In their message, they called on fellow military personnel across the country to refuse to raise arms against their comrades and to reject any orders to shoot civilians. They further urged resistance against those who issue such directives, signaling a potential fracture within the armed forces.

This unprecedented move has deepened Madagascar’s political unrest, transforming the protest movement into a more formidable challenge for the ruling government. The involvement of military personnel not only strengthens the opposition’s momentum but also poses a serious threat to the current leadership’s stability.

Observers warn that the situation could escalate further if divisions within the military widen or if the government fails to respond with meaningful dialogue. For now, the streets of Antananarivo remain tense, with protesters emboldened by the soldiers’ support and the nation bracing for what comes next.