By The Eye Media Uganda
Antananarivo | The Eye Media — In a dramatic turn of events, groups of Madagascar soldiers on Saturday joined thousands of demonstrators in the capital, openly defying government orders and pledging not to shoot at protesters, eyewitnesses and AFP reporters confirmed.
The soldiers, seen marching side by side with civilians through the streets of Antananarivo, declared solidarity with citizens calling for political change and respect for democratic rights. The rare show of unity between the army and the public has intensified pressure on President Andry Rajoelina’s administration amid weeks of mounting unrest.
Chanting slogans and waving national flags, protesters hailed the soldiers as heroes for refusing to use force against unarmed citizens. “We are with the people, not against them,” one soldier told local media as crowds cheered.
The government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the defection, but security analysts warn that the development could mark a turning point in Madagascar’s political standoff.
Political observers say the protests, initially triggered by allegations of corruption and economic mismanagement, have now evolved into a nationwide movement demanding leadership accountability and electoral reforms.
The situation in Antananarivo remained tense late Saturday, with military trucks stationed near key government buildings as both sides called for calm to prevent further escalation.
