Madagascar: Army unit claims control amid political turmoil

Madagascar’s presidency says an attempt to seize power is underway after army unit CAPSAT declared it now controls the country’s armed forces, reported by BBC News on the 12th of October. The move follows weeks of youth-led protests over water shortages, corruption, and high living costs.

CAPSAT, which helped bring President Andry Rajoelina to power in 2009, has appointed General Demosthene Pikulas as army chief, reportedly with ministerial backing.

Protesters have occupied Antananarivo’s May 13 Square as some troops joined demonstrations. Air France suspended flights amid rising unrest, while the UN urged restraint after reports of more than 20 deaths

BBC News, Maghrebi