Madagascar leader warns of coup; U.S. issues alert
Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina said Oct. 12 an attempted coup is underway after members of the elite CAPSAT unit joined youth-led protests and claimed control of the armed forces, naming Gen. Demosthene Pikulas as military leader. With a heavy military presence in Antananarivo and the president’s whereabouts unclear, the U.S. Embassy advised Americans to shelter in place as the African Union urged calm; the UN says at least 22 people have been killed during three weeks of unrest.
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War & Conflict
📌 Key Facts
- CAPSAT commander Col. Michael Randrianirina said the unit has taken control of the armed forces and installed Gen. Demosthene Pikulas.
- President Rajoelina’s office condemned an 'attempt to seize power illegally' on Oct. 12 amid large protests.
- U.S. Embassy in Madagascar issued a shelter-in-place advisory for American citizens; the African Union called for restraint.
- UN reports at least 22 deaths and dozens injured since protests began Sept. 25.