Antananarivo: Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina announced on Monday that he has taken refuge in a "safe location" to ensure his security following an assassination attempt against him.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Rajoelina, in a video posted on social media, claimed that the assassination attempt was orchestrated by "military personnel motivated by politicians." While he did not disclose his current location, he emphasized that the resolution to the ongoing crisis lies in adhering to the Constitution.
The political unrest traces back to September 25, when young protesters initiated demonstrations against persistent water and electricity shortages. These protests gradually turned violent, with demands escalating to calls for the president's resignation. In response to the growing unrest, Rajoelina appointed Ruphin Fortunat Dimbisoa Zafisambo as prime minister on October 6, following the dissolution of the government amid widespread protests.
In the video message, Rajoelina stated that he is "on a mission" to procure generators intended for Madagascar to address the nation's electricity shortage. He assured the public that generators donated by allied countries would soon be acquired, projecting that the current electricity deficit of 58 megawatts would be "more than covered in the coming months."