Soldiers Rebel in Madagascar, Join Protesters Amid Uprising
UPDATE: Soldiers in Madagascar have joined thousands of protesters in Antananarivo today, escalating tensions in a significant uprising against the government. The military personnel announced they would refuse orders to shoot demonstrators, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing protests that erupted on September 25.
The youth-led demonstrations have drawn massive crowds, with reports indicating this is one of the largest gatherings since the movement began. Protesters welcomed soldiers near Lake Anosy, chanting “Thank you!” while some waved Madagascar flags. The atmosphere turned electric as citizens united with military members, signaling a potential shift in loyalty.
Earlier today, soldiers at an army barracks in the Soanierana district made a bold statement in a video shared on social media. They declared, “Let us join forces, military, gendarmes and police, and refuse to be paid to shoot our friends, our brothers and our sisters.” This rallying cry resonated with many, as they called on fellow troops to “prevent all aircraft from taking off” and to “refuse orders to shoot your friends.”
The protests were sparked by widespread dissatisfaction over power and water shortages, quickly evolving into a broader anti-government movement. The unrest has already resulted in at least 22 confirmed deaths, according to the United Nations. However, President Andry Rajoelina disputes this figure, claiming that only 12 individuals died, all of whom he labeled as “looters and vandals.”
The military’s involvement today comes after intense confrontations between police and protesters in recent days. Authorities previously used tear gas and rubber bullets in attempts to disperse demonstrators, leading to several injuries and the circulation of disturbing videos showcasing police violence. The UN has urged authorities to “desist from unnecessary force” and to uphold the rights to peaceful assembly.
In response to the escalating situation, the newly appointed Minister of the Armed Forces, General Deramasinjaka Manantsoa Rakotoarivelo, held a press conference earlier this afternoon. He urged troops to “remain calm” and called for dialogue with those opposed to the government. “The Malagasy army remains a mediator and constitutes the nation’s last line of defence,” he stated.
As the situation develops, the military’s refusal to engage with protesters could significantly alter the trajectory of this uprising. With the potential for further unrest, citizens and military personnel alike are anxiously awaiting the next moves from both the government and the military.
This situation in Madagascar underscores the ongoing struggles faced by one of the world’s poorest nations. Frequent uprisings have marked its history since independence in 1960, including notable events in 2009 that led to Rajoelina’s initial rise to power. Despite his re-election in 2018 and again in 2023 amid contested polls, the current protests reflect a deep-seated discontent among the population.
As tensions remain high, all eyes are on Antananarivo, where the future of Madagascar hangs in the balance. The call for solidarity among soldiers and citizens represents a critical moment in the nation’s fight for justice and accountability. Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.
