Madagascar soldiers join protesters amid coup allegation

A military unit in Madagascar is taking control of the country's security forces amid President Andry Rajoelina's allegations of an "attempt to seize power illegally." The CAPSAT contingent joined thousands of protesters in Antananarivo, calling for security forces to "refuse orders to shoot" as police clashed with demonstrators.

Protests have been ongoing since September 25, driven by frustrations over power and water shortages. Rajoelina stated, "An attempt to seize power illegally and by force...is currently under way," emphasizing the need for dialogue and unity. Madagascar, one of the world's poorest nations, has faced frequent uprisings since its independence in 1960.