The whereabouts of Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina remained unclear on Monday, intensifying speculation that he may have fled the country as fears of a coup mounted and military defections deepened the political crisis.
Rajoelina has not been seen in public since last week and conflicting reports have emerged about his location.
French broadcaster RFI reported that the president was evacuated on Sunday via a French military aircraft after being flown by helicopter to Sainte-Marie Island on Madagascar’s east coast.
The report suggests he may have travelled to Dubai via Mauritius although this remains unconfirmed.
Public Security Minister Mandimbin’ny Aina Randriambelo told news outlets that Rajoelina’s location was unknown even as the presidency announced he would address the nation later on Monday.
The uncertainty comes amid a dramatic escalation in unrest that began on 25 September with youth-led protests over water and electricity shortages.
The demonstrations have since evolved into a broader movement demanding Rajoelina’s resignation, institutional reforms and accountability for protest-related violence.
Over the weekend, the elite CAPSAT military unit – instrumental in Rajoelina’s 2009 rise to power – declared it had taken control of the armed forces and backed the protest movement.
The presidency responded by condemning what it described as an “illegal and forcible seizure of power.”
The crisis has drawn international concern, with South Africa and the African Union calling for calm, constitutional order and inclusive dialogue.
At least 22 people have died in the unrest, according to UN estimates, though the government disputes the figures.
Rajoelina’s anticipated address later Monday is expected to clarify his position and respond to the unfolding events, which now represent the most serious challenge to his rule since his re-election in 2023.
JN/APA