Overview

• CAPSAT officers declared via video that all army, air and naval orders would now originate from their headquarters in Soanierana, invoking their 2009 role.
• The presidency said an attempted illegal and forcible seizure of power is under way, while the new prime minister said the government stands firm and the president remains in the country.
• Rival chains of command emerged as the National Gendarmerie stated its orders would come exclusively from its own command center.
• Soldiers escorted large crowds into Antananarivo’s May 13 Square on Saturday after vowing to refuse orders to shoot; UN reports at least 22 deaths since Sept 25, a toll disputed by Rajoelina.
• Regional and international actors urged restraint and dialogue, with the African Union and South Africa calling for calm and Air France suspending flights to the island.