Soldiers Join Protesters in Madagascar, Refusing Orders to Shoot Civilians!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

In a dramatic turn amid escalating protests in Madagascar, soldiers from an elite military unit have broken ranks and joined demonstrators in the capital, declaring they would refuse orders to fire on citizens. [1]

What’s Going On

• The unit in question is CAPSAT, a military division that previously played a significant role in Andry Rajoelina’s rise to power. [1]
• CAPSAT publicly called for solidarity with youth protesters, urging fellow soldiers to defy commands that would pit them against civilians. [1]
• In a bold move, some troops escorted demonstrators into May 13 Square in Antananarivo — a key symbolic zone previously sealed off by security forces. [1]
• Protesters, who initially took to the streets over chronic power and water outages, have expanded their demands to include President Rajoelina’s resignation and institutional reforms. [2]

Why It Matters

• The defection of soldiers signals deep fractures within Madagascar’s security apparatus and raises the stakes of the crisis.
  Their refusal to follow lethal orders materially limits the government’s ability to suppress protests with force, potentially forcing a political resolution.
• The event reflects how youth-led movements and calls for reform are increasingly resonating within state institutions.
• International observers and human rights bodies are watching closely, warning against escalation and excessive use of force. [3] Citations:

1. Reuters: www.reuters.com/world/africa/madagascar-protesters-enter-symbolic-may-13-square-under-military-escort-2025-10-11/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. AP News: apnews.com/article/541a453cbc133aaa6331f18e91efc8cc?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3. Terra Daily: www.terradaily.com/reports/UN_calls_on_Madagascar_to_avoid_unnecessary_force_against_protesters_999.html?utm_source=

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Managing Editor of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

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