Madagascar President Flees Amidst Military Defection and Protests

President's Departure

• ✈️ Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has fled the country, confirmed by opposition leaders and military sources.
• 🇫🇷 He reportedly departed on a French military aircraft on Sunday, possibly after a deal with President Macron.

Military Defection and Protests

• ✊ Army units have defected and joined ongoing Gen Z protests against corruption and poverty.
• 🛡️ The elite Capsat unit, instrumental in Rajoelina's 2009 rise to power, refused to fire on protesters and instead escorted them.
• 🗣️ Protesters are demanding accountability from the president.

Escalation of Grievances

• 💧 Initial protests over water and power shortages have broadened to include grievances about bad governance, corruption, and lack of basic services.
• ⚠️ At least 22 people have been killed in clashes since September 25th, according to the UN.
• 🚨 Capsat announced it was taking charge of the military and appointed a new army chief, prompting Rajoelina to warn of a power grab.