Highlights
- President Andry Rajoelina has reportedly fled Madagascar amid mass youth-led protests
- Opposition leaders claim he left on Sunday (October 12)
- Military units reportedly sided with protesters before his escape
- French media reports say he left on a French military aircraft
- Rajoelina is said to have made an agreement with French President Emmanuel Macron
President Reportedly Leaves Madagascar
Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina has fled the country as mass anti-government protests led by the nation’s young generation—known as “Gen-Z”—intensified. Opposition leaders and government officials confirmed the news on Monday (October 13).
Opposition Confirms the Departure
Opposition leader Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko told reporters that several military units joined the protesters, leading to Rajoelina’s sudden departure on Sunday (October 12).
“ফেসবুক, হোয়াটসঅ্যাপ, ইনস্টাগ্রাম—আজই শিখে ফেলুন ৫০ টাকায় ৫০ হাজার মানুষের কাছে পৌঁছে যাওয়ার গোপন কৌশল!”
French Military Aircraft Involved
A military source revealed that Rajoelina left the country on a French military plane. According to French media outlet RFI, he reached an agreement with French President Emmanuel Macron before his departure.
The source added that a French military transport plane landed at Saint Marie Airport on Sunday. Moments later, a helicopter brought a passenger to the plane—believed to be the President himself.
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Presidential Office Silent
Earlier, the President’s office had announced that Rajoelina would deliver a national address at 7 PM on Monday. However, no further statements or appearances followed, deepening the uncertainty surrounding his status.
Roots of the Protests
The crisis began on September 25, when protests erupted over water and electricity shortages. Within days, it grew into a massive movement against corruption, poor governance, and the lack of basic rights in the country.
Source: TBS
