Madagascar’s embattled President Andry Rajoelina has said he is sheltering in a “safe space” after what he described as an assassination attempt, as protests and military defections intensify pressure on him to resign.
In a live address on Monday, the 51-year-old leader said that since September 25 there had been coup attempts involving military personnel and politicians who allegedly plotted to kill him. He did not disclose his location but insisted he was forced to move for his safety. The speech, delayed twice, was his first public appearance since a mutinous army unit declared support for anti-government protests.
The demonstrations, initially triggered by chronic power and water shortages, have grown into a broader movement demanding Rajoelina’s resignation. He urged that the only way forward was to respect the constitution, framing himself as a defender of legal order.
Reports from Radio France Internationale suggested Rajoelina may have left Madagascar aboard a French military plane, though French officials, including President Emmanuel Macron, have not confirmed this. The crisis has raised fears of further instability in the island nation, with international observers warning of a potential escalation if no political compromise is reached.
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