• Army presence in presidential palace represents ‘manifest act of attempted coup d'etat and a serious violation of republican legality,’ says presidency
• Military intervention comes following youth-led anti-government protests that began on Sept. 25   

ISTANBUL

Madagascar’s presidency on Tuesday condemned what it called the “illegal declaration” by the Army Personnel Administration Center (CAPSAT) military unit to suspend the constitution.

Calling the CAPSAT “a faction of military rebels,” the presidency said in a statement that the army presence in the presidential palace represents a “manifest act of attempted coup d'etat and a serious violation of republican legality.”

“Such acts constitute a flagrant violation of the Constitution, democratic principles, and the oath sworn by each military member to protect the Nation and its legitimate institutions,” it said.

The presidency said the attempt to “overthrow” the constitutional order on the Republic’s anniversary was a “direct attack on the Republic itself, its founding values, and the sovereignty of the Malagasy People.”

It said President Andry Rajoelina remains “fully in office and ensures the maintenance of constitutional order and national stability.”

The CAPSAT elements, led by Col. Michael Randrianirina, entered the Ambohitsorohitra presidential palace in the capital Antananarivo on Tuesday and declared that they had taken power.

The military said the country’s presidency will be collectively assumed by its officers.

The transition period will extend over two years and will include a referendum for the establishment of a new constitution.

Five institutions, including the High Constitutional Court, the Independent National Electoral Commission, the Senate, the High Council for the Defense of Human Rights, and the High Court of Justice, have been suspended, while the National Assembly remains in place.

Earlier in the day, Rajoelina dissolved parliament following weeks of anti-government protests across the country, saying it was necessary to restore order and make room for the youth.

However, the parliament convened and passed a motion to impeach the president.

Since Sept. 25, he has faced youth-led protests over severe water and electricity shortages, as well as allegations of corruption, which have quickly escalated into calls for his resignation.

Rajoelina said on Monday that he was sheltering in a "safe space" after an “attempt on his life,” as he was reported to have been evacuated to France on a military plane after "a deal" with French President Emmanuel Macron.