Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina left the country on October 12 following mass protests led by youth and the defection of a part of the army to the demonstrators' side. This was reported to Reuters by opposition leaders and official sources.
In a speech to parliament, opposition leader Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko said that Rajoelina was taken out of the country on a military aircraft belonging to France. According to a military source, he was taken by helicopter from Ivato Airport and transferred to a Casa aircraft.
In a video address to the nation, the president stated that he was forced to leave for a safe place because his life was threatened. Although he did not reveal his whereabouts, he emphasized "not allowing the destruction of Madagascar." Diplomatic sources indicated that he refused to resign.
French President Emmanuel Macron has not yet confirmed the allegations that France helped Rajoelina escape, but noted the need to maintain constitutional order in Madagascar.
Protests and unrest of the "Z Generation"
Since the end of September, youth known as the "Z Generation" have begun mass protests against the government in Madagascar. Initially protesting problems with water and electricity supply, the demonstrators later demanded the resignation of the president, parliament, and the election commission.
As a result of the unrest, several government buildings, shopping centers, and banks were destroyed. Police responded with tear gas and rubber bullets. According to UN data, at least 22 people were killed and more than 100 injured in the first four days.
The situation in the country remains unstable for now. Although Rajoelina has not officially resigned, his fate and political future remain uncertain.
