A coup attempt is underway on the island of Madagascar, its President Andry Rajoelina announced today.
A statement from the presidential office said that authorities "wish to inform the nation and the international community that an attempt has been made to illegally and violently seize power."
The statement did not say who was behind the attempted overthrow of the government, but members of the armed forces were seen yesterday joining youth protests against the president.
The demonstrations, which have been ongoing since September 25, are aimed at the poor functioning of public services, as well as alleged corruption and nepotism in the government. The protests have escalated into the most significant unrest in Madagascar in recent years.
A movement called "Gen Z Madagascar" is leading the protests, which, according to the United Nations, have been ongoing for three weeks and have left 22 people dead and dozens injured. The government disputes those figures.
Bonus video:
