Madagascar’s President, Andry Rajoelina, has reportedly fled the country as parts of the military switch sides amid growing Gen Z-led protest shaking the nation.
The president, who was scheduled to address the nation on Monday night, cancelled his speech for the second time after reports emerged that soldiers planned to seize the state television station.
According to Reuters, Rajoelina hasn’t been seen in public since Wednesday, sparking intense speculation about his whereabouts.
Opposition leader Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko claimed that Rajoelina left the country on Sunday after several army units joined the protesters.
“We called the staff of the presidency, and they confirmed that he left the country,” Randrianasoloniaiko told Reuters.
A military source alleged that the president departed aboard a French military aircraft, while RFI reported he had reached an agreement with French President Emmanuel Macron before his departure.
Before his reported exit, Rajoelina had accused some factions within the armed forces of plotting a coup after they joined the youth-led demonstrations. Shortly after, CAPSAT, an elite army unit, announced it had taken control of the country’s military command.
What began as small demonstrations over power and water shortages has now grown into a national movement against corruption, unemployment, and the rising cost of living.
The ongoing unrest nicknamed “Gen Z Madagascar,” has spread across multiple cities, with the UN reporting at least 22 deaths, though the government disputes the figure.