Madagascar's president says attempted coup is underway

Madagascar’s president says attempted coup is underway World Oct 12, 2025 9:22 AM EDT

ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar (AP) — An attempted coup is underway in the Indian Ocean island of Madagascar, the country’s president said on Sunday, a day after members of an elite army unit were seen joining youth-led protests against the government.

Madagascar has been shaken by three weeks of the most significant unrest in years in the nation. The protests are led by a group calling itself “Gen Z Madagascar,” and the United Nations says the demonstrations have left 22 people dead and dozens injured. The government has disputed this number.

FILE PHOTO: Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina, gestures as he appoints military general Ruphin Fortunat Zafisambo as Prime Minister at the Lavoloha Presidential