The presidency of Madagascar has declared that an attempt to seize power illegally and by force is underway, after a key military unit claimed control of the armed forces in a dramatic turn of events that deepens a volatile political crisis.

The CAPSAT unit — an elite force that played a pivotal role in the 2009 crisis that brought Andry Rajoelina to power — announced that it now commands all branches of the military: land, air, and naval.

At a ceremony, CAPSAT appointed General Demosthene Pikulas as the new Army Chief of Staff. The country’s Armed Forces Minister, Manantsoa Deramasinjaka Rakotoarivelo, was present and publicly endorsed the appointment, saying, “I give him my blessing.”

However, CAPSAT commander Col. Michael Randrianirina denied that a formal coup had taken place, claiming instead that his unit was responding to the people’s demands and refusing to fire on demonstrators.

President Andry Rajoelina condemned the actions, calling them “in complete violation of the Constitution and democratic principles.” He appealed to all governmental and security forces to unite in defense of constitutional order.

His whereabouts remain uncertain, though his office says he remains in Madagascar and in charge of national affairs.

What began as youth-led protests on Sept. 25, triggered by outages in water and electricity services, has swelled into a nationwide movement demanding Rajoelina’s resignation amid frustration over corruption, unemployment, and the cost of living.

Members of CAPSAT broke ranks and joined the protest movement, refusing orders to suppress civilians. At least 22 people are reported dead, with over 100 injured. The government disputes some of these figures, claiming 12 deaths and describing victims as “looters and vandals.”

Protesters succeeded for the first time in reaching May 13 Square — a historic site of previous uprisings — spurred by support from the military defectors.

There were also reports of gunfire exchanges, including an alleged shoot-out at a CAPSAT camp. One soldier was killed by gendarme fire in those clashes.

Amid the instability, Air France suspended flights to Antananarivo, citing security concerns.

The African Union has expressed deep concern and urged all parties to resolve the crisis through dialogue.

Meanwhile, the United Nations human rights chief, Volker Türk, called on security forces to cease using “unnecessary and disproportionate force.”

Analysts note that CAPSAT’s involvement recalls its role in the 2009 Camp Capsat mutiny, which helped bring Rajoelina to power.

Madagascar faces deep structural challenges: over 75% of its 30 million people live below the poverty line, and only about one-third of the population has access to reliable electricity.

These systemic strains have amplified the youth’s grievances.

As tension escalates, key questions loom: Will the military defectors consolidate power? Will Rajoelina survive politically? And can peaceful compromise be attained before violence spirals further?

The crisis crystallizes Madagascar’s moment of political reckoning — with possible outcomes ranging from a new transitional government to chaotic power struggles. The next hours and days will be critical. (ILKHA)