Madagascar president has left country: Opposition leader

ANTANANARIVO — Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has left the country, opposition leader Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko told Reuters on Monday, citing conversations with presidency staff members, following weeks of youth protests that have rocked the island country.

"The president left the country, we called the staff of the presidency and they confirmed that he left the country" on Sunday, Randrianasoloniaiko said, adding that Rajoelina's whereabouts were unknown.

A military source told Reuters that Rajoelina flew out of the country on a French military aircraft on Sunday.

French radio RFI also reported that Rajoelina had been flown out of the country on a French military aircraft, following a deal with President Emmanuel Macron.

A Madagascar presidency spokesperson did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the RFI report.

Rajoelina became increasingly isolated after losing the support of a key army unit that joined thousands of youths protesting against corruption and poverty, demanding his resignation.

Demonstrations erupted on Sept 25 over power cuts and water shortages, but quickly escalated into an uprising over broader grievances, including poor governance and a lack of basic services.

In a further challenge to Rajoelina, opposition members of the National Assembly will begin impeachment proceedings against him, Randrianasoloniaiko told Reuters on Monday.

On Sunday, Rajoelina's office said "an attempted illegal and forcible seizure of power" was under way, adding that he had urged "dialogue to resolve the crisis".

The presidency said on Monday that Rajoelina would address the nation at 7 pm.

Agencies Via Xinhua