On Saturday, October 11, soldiers from a military base in Antananarivo, Madagascar, called for a military insurrection. They urged their fellow military personnel, police, and gendarmerie to unite and refuse orders to fire on protesters.
In a video recorded explicitly for this purpose, the soldiers called on other military units, particularly those stationed at Ivato Airport, to prevent any aircraft from taking off without exception.
Following the video’s release, several soldiers joined the crowds protesting in the streets, receiving supportive chants from citizens, reflecting a state of public unrest and division within the military institution.
### Escalating Protests Led by “Generation Z”
The demonstrations sweeping through Antananarivo and several other cities are reportedly the largest since the popular movement led by “Generation Z” began in late September. The protests started against frequent power and water outages but expanded to demand the resignation of President Andry Rajoelina, evolving into a widespread popular movement against the authority.
### Ministry of Defense Calls for Calm
In response, Madagascar’s new Minister of Defense called for calm and restraint during a brief press conference, warning against slipping into chaos due to the severe escalation of the political and social crisis affecting the country.
Since the protests began on September 25, at least 22 people have been killed and over 100 injured, according to the latest statistics from the United Nations. However, President Rajoelina has denied these figures, claiming that the number of fatalities does not exceed 12, all of whom he described as “troublemakers.”
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