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1h ago

Madagascar Crisis Escalates as CAPSAT Troops Join Protests and Open 13 May Square

A CAPSAT faction now claims to command the military, a move the presidency calls an attempted coup.

Protesters clash with members of the Malagasy gendarmerie as thousands gather to call for the resignation of President Andry Rajoelina in Antananarivo, on 11 October 2025. Picture: Luis TATO / AFP
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An army contingent called on soldiers at the airport to refuse orders to shoot civilians

Overview

  • Soldiers from the CAPSAT contingent refused orders to fire and escorted crowds into Antananarivo’s Place du 13 Mai for the first time since the demonstrations began on September 25.
  • On Sunday, CAPSAT officers declared that all military orders would originate from their headquarters, while President Andry Rajoelina denounced an illegal power grab and urged dialogue.
  • The United Nations reports at least 22 deaths and about 100 injuries since the unrest began, figures Rajoelina disputes as he cites 12 fatalities.
  • Police used tear gas and stun grenades before pulling back as troops arrived, AFP journalists heard live gunfire near the square, and local reports cited additional casualties during Saturday’s rally.
  • Gen Z organizers rejected talks with the government and demanded Rajoelina’s resignation and systemic reforms, as CAPSAT’s pivotal role in the 2009 mutiny heightens concern over the military split.