President Andry Rajoelina has fled Madagascar amid escalating nationwide protests and reports of a possible military power struggle, confirming on Monday that he had moved to a “safe location” to protect his life.

In a live address streamed on Facebook, Rajoelina said he had left the capital following widespread speculation that he was evacuated on Sunday. He did not disclose his current whereabouts.

The announcement came after the president’s planned televised speech was delayed when “a group of armed forces threatened to seize control of the state-owned broadcaster,” according to a statement from his office.

Growing unrest and military defection

Tensions in Madagascar have surged since late September, when protests over prolonged power and water shortages expanded into broader demonstrations against rising living costs, poverty, and corruption. Many protesters are now demanding Rajoelina’s resignation.

At least 22 people have been killed in clashes between demonstrators and security forces, according to the United Nations.

Rajoelina’s departure follows reports that army units defected over the weekend. On Saturday, he denounced what he described as “an illegal attempt to seize power by force.” Hours later, the elite CAPSAT military unit — instrumental in Rajoelina’s 2009 coup that first brought him to power — announced it had assumed control of the military and would “refuse orders to fire on protesters.”

International reaction

Speaking from a summit in Egypt, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed concern over the crisis but refused to confirm whether France had assisted in Rajoelina’s evacuation.

“I will not confirm anything today,” Macron said. “I just wish to express our great concern.”

A military source told Reuters that Rajoelina was flown out on Sunday aboard a French Army Casa aircraft, after being transported by helicopter to Sainte Marie Airport.

Protests continue in Antananarivo

In the capital Antananarivo, hundreds of demonstrators — joined by soldiers and security personnel — rallied outside city hall on Monday, waving flags and chanting anti-government slogans.

“I hope the president will apologise and genuinely announce his resignation,” said Finaritra Manitra Andrianamelasoa, a 24-year-old protester, speaking to AFP. “Afterwards, we can organise elections and choose who should lead next.”

A broader regional trend

The protests in Madagascar echo a wave of youth-led movements across several countries this year, including Nepal, where Gen Z demonstrators forced the resignation of President KP Sharma Oli in early September.