Authorities in Madagascar have charged 13 people, including a senior military officer, over an alleged plot to assassinate the country’s interim leader, Michael Randrianirina, as political tensions remain high months after mass protests reshaped the government.
State prosecutor Narindra Navalona Rakotoniaina said 11 of the suspects have been placed in detention, while arrest warrants have been issued for others believed to be involved. The group is accused of planning an attack on the 52-year-old leader, who came to power in October following widespread unrest.
“It should be noted that senior officers are among those involved in this case,” Rakotoniaina said, adding that a general had publicly expressed an intention to take part in a coup. She did not name the officer but confirmed that Patrick Rakotomamonjy, a colonel and former presidential official, was among those who had “designed and organised” the alleged operation.
Rakotomamonjy previously held a senior position at the presidency before being dismissed in January. Prosecutors say the suspects used private funds to support the plan and communicated through messaging platforms, including WhatsApp. Some of those arrested have reportedly admitted to contributing money to finance the plot.
Searches carried out at the homes of suspects led to the discovery of weapons and large sums of cash, according to investigators. Authorities have not disclosed further details about how close the alleged plot came to being carried out.
The case comes at a time of continued political instability in Madagascar, following months of unrest that led to a change in leadership. Randrianirina assumed power after youth-led protests forced former president Andry Rajoelina to step down and leave the country.
The protests were driven in part by public anger over worsening living conditions, including shortages of water and electricity. Demonstrations, led largely by young people, grew in scale and intensity, eventually prompting intervention by elements of the military.
Randrianirina, whose military unit supported the protesters, has since pledged to guide the country through a transition period and organise elections by the end of 2027. However, his leadership has faced criticism from some groups who say the political system remains dominated by established elites.
In March, the interim leader dissolved his cabinet and announced the formation of a new government. The move was presented as an effort to reset his administration, but it drew criticism after it again excluded representatives of the Gen Z youth movement that played a central role in the protests.
Analysts say the alleged assassination plot highlights the fragility of the current political situation, with divisions persisting within both the military and political class. The involvement of senior officers, if confirmed, could raise further concerns about stability and control within the security forces.
So far, Randrianirina has not publicly commented in detail on the charges, but his government has emphasised the need to maintain order and prevent further unrest.
The authorities say investigations are ongoing, and additional arrests are possible. The case is likely to intensify scrutiny of the transitional government as it seeks to stabilise the country and prepare for future elections.
With political tensions still simmering, the alleged plot underscores the challenges facing Madagascar as it attempts to move beyond a period of upheaval and restore confidence in its institutions.
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